Italy, late 15th Century / c. 1470
Tarquinius Priscus Entering Rome
The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs Tarquinius Priscus Entering Rome as painting (Italy, late 15th Century · c. 1470).
This painting utilizes continuous narrative; the same figures appear multiple times as the story unfolds from left to right.
A CLOSER LOOK
The museum identifies this painting as tempera on wood, mounted on canvas and credits Jacopo del Sellaio (Italian, c. 1441–1493).
The museum's collection notes: Originally the front of a bridal chest, this panel was later removed and framed like a painting. At left, the Etruscan prophetess Tanaquil foresees her husband’s entry into Rome. En route, an eagle snatched his hat, then returned it as they approached the city, which Tanaquil interpreted as a good omen. Ancient triumphal processions, closely connected to ancient sarcophagi, were common subjects for bridal chests. Here Tanaquil is a model for a supportive, dutiful wife.
FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE
The Cleveland Museum of ArtTarquinius Priscus Entering RomeOriginal explanation based on the sources above. Images carry their own reuse terms.