Neptunus in Capitolio (c1650)

DESCRIPTION: The image depicts an antique print of a colossal statue titled Neptunus in Capitolio (Neptune on the Capitoline Hill). This copperplate engraving was created by Cornelis van Dalen (sculp.) 98 [out of a series of 100], who copied the design from an earlier 1638 series by French artist François Perrier, a French artist active in Rome during the 17th century. It is considered part of the series Segmenta nobilium signorum et statuarum (Portions of Noble Statues and Figures), published in 1638. The Subject: Marforio. While titled "Neptunus" in this specific print, the sculpture is famously known as the Marforio, one of the so-called “Talking Statues” of Rome. Identification: Although historically identified as Neptune or Oceanus, it is now widely believed to be a personification of the River Tiber or a similar water deity. The original colossal Roman sculpture is currently located in the courtyard of the Palazzo Nuovo (part of the Capitoline Museums) in Rome. Symbolism: Reclining figures of this type typically represent river gods, often accompanied by attributes like a cornucopia or local wildlife, such as the she-wolf in related prints of the Tiber. Laid paper with plate marks. Another is held by the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. STYLE: Engraving COLOUR: Monochrome SIZE (cm): 22.5 x 13.5 CREATORS: Cornelius van Dalen (I) after Francois Perrier PUBLICATION: ?Segmenta nobilium signorum et statuarum PUBLISHER: DATE: c1650 COMMENTS: Excellent condition with minor hole to rh corner (hence price) SUBJECT: Works of Art PACKAGE: Single one-sided sheet in acid-free mount, flat & unfolded inside hard-backed envelope. Royal Mail Tracked 24 included. Note: Images are provided for illustration purposes only and are intended to show the complete printed product, including any imperfections of age that may be present. Frames or props shown in the images are for display purposes only and are not included with your purchase.