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The Judgment of Paris
1544–45
Medium/Technique
Etching and engraving
Dimensions
Sheet: 30.9 × 42.8 cm (12 3/16 × 16 7/8 in.)(trimmed within the platemark)
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Lydia Evans Tunnard in memory of W. G. Russell Allen
Accession Number63.2834
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsEurope, Prints and Drawings
ClassificationsPrints
Catalogue Raisonné
Zerner J.M. 40, only state; Herbet vol. 5, p. 55; Bartsch (anonymous Fontainebleau masters) 72
DescriptionAfter an enamel by Pierre Reymond. These two versions of the Judgment of Paris [M35557 and 63.2834] illustrate the essential differences between the Italian and French styles. Marcantonio's sculptural treatment of figures in space contrasts with the more decorative, linear surface patterns of Mignon. Mantegna was the first Italian painter who extensively used engravers to make prints after his designs. His use of subjects from classical antiquity made these prints popular throughout the Renaissance. His energetic line was admired and emulated by many artists, including the French engraver Jean Duvet.
Marks
Verso, lower right, in pen and brown ink, the mark of Naudet [first name unknown], Paris (active 1763-1830)(Lugt 1937), 1788; verso, bottom center, stamped in brown ink, the mark of the MFA (Lugt 282)
ProvenanceWilliam Goodwin Russell Allen (b. 1882 - d. 1955), Boston; by inheritance to his niece, Lydia Evans Tunnard (Mrs. Christopher Tunnard, b. 1913 - d. 1980), New Haven, CT; 1963, year-end gift of Mrs. Christopher Tunnard to the MFA. (Accession date: December 30, 1963)