Jupiter, Neptune and Pluto Dividing the Universe - Giulio Bonasone

A detailed sixteenth-century engraving by Giulio Bonasone depicting the mythological division of the universe by Jupiter, Neptune, and Pluto.

This engraving by Giulio Bonasone depicts the classical myth of the three brothers, Jupiter, Neptune, and Pluto, casting lots to determine their respective domains over the universe. Bonasone, a skilled printmaker active in Bologna during the sixteenth century, demonstrates his mastery of the burin through precise hatching and cross-hatching techniques. The composition is structured around the central figures who stand upon a shoreline, gesturing towards an urn that contains the lots.

To the left, the three-headed dog Cerberus emerges from a rocky outcrop, signalling the proximity of the underworld. Above, a large, billowing cloud formation provides a dramatic backdrop, with winged figures positioned within the heavens. The sea, rendered with rhythmic, repetitive lines, stretches into the distance, while a winged figure on the right adds a sense of movement to the scene. The anatomical treatment of the figures reflects the influence of the Roman school, particularly the works of Raphael and Michelangelo, which Bonasone frequently interpreted through his prints.

Bonasone was known for his ability to translate complex painterly compositions into the medium of engraving. This work is part of a series exploring mythological themes, a popular subject for collectors of the period. The clarity of the line work and the balanced arrangement of the figures create a sense of order, typical of the High Renaissance aesthetic. The print offers a clear view into the narrative traditions of the sixteenth century, where classical literature and mythology provided a primary source of inspiration for artists and patrons alike. The technical execution allows for a detailed examination of the musculature and the atmospheric qualities of the sky and sea, showcasing the capabilities of engraving as a medium for narrative storytelling.