This is a drawing of a Bacchanalian scene with classical figures and a grapevine. It depicts a group of muscular figures engaged in a celebration around a barrel beneath a fruiting grapevine. Various poses are shown, with some figures holding or pouring liquids, while others interact with the grapes on the vine. The artwork features detailed anatomical rendering of the figures, intricate design of foliage and textures of materials like the wood of the barrel and the stone floor. Playful putti contribute to the lively and festive atmosphere. The composition is dense and dynamic, capturing the spirit of revelry and indulgence.
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This is a drawing of a Bacchanalian scene with classical figures and a grapevine. It depicts a group of muscular figures engaged in a celebration around a barrel beneath a fruiting grapevine. Various poses are shown, with some figures holding or pouring liquids, while others interact with the grapes on the vine. The artwork features detailed anatomical rendering of the figures, intricate design of foliage and textures of materials like the wood of the barrel and the stone floor. Playful putti contribute to the lively and festive atmosphere. The composition is dense and dynamic, capturing the spirit of revelry and indulgence.

National Gallery of Art · Print

Bacchanal with a Wine Vat

Andrea Mantegna

Date
before 1481
Medium
engraving on laid paper
Dimensions
sheet: 27.8 x 42.2 cm (10 15/16 x 16 5/8 in.)
Classification
Print
Accession number
1941.1.5
Credit line
Gift of W.G. Russell Allen
Time span
1401 to 1500
Department
CG-E

Subjects and terms

  • Paduan
  • engraving
  • classical
  • mythology
  • Bacchanal
Watermarks

Crowned Shield containing Letters ‘PS’. Br. 9666-9 (Paris 1541-57, Arras 1539, St. Denis 1552)

NGA object ID 583. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.