Bust of Bacchus surrounded by strapwork, from the series' Deorum dearumque,' a set of images of deities after coins in the collection of Abraham Ortelius

Art Historical Context

This exquisite etching, *Bust of Bacchus by strapwork*, captures Roman god of wine—known for revelry and ecstasy—in a classical profile bust, framed by intricate Renaissance strapwork motifs resembling woven leather straps. Created in 1573 as part of the series *orum dearumque*Of Gods and Goddesses"), it draws directly from ancient coins in the renowned collection of Abraham Ortelius the pioneering Flemish cartographer whose atlas *Theatrum Orbis Terrarum* revolutionized mapmaking. These prints bridged antiquity and the Renaissance, reviving classical imagery for 16th-century audiences fascinated by numismatics and mythology. Collaboratively etched by masters Philips Galle, Gerard van Groeningen, and the van Doetecum brothers (Johannes and Lucas), the work exemplifies the fine detail achievable in etching—a relatively new technique at the time—on a petite plate (4 3/4 x 3 3/16 in.). The ornamental strapwork adds a decorative flair typical of Northern Mannerist prints, blending portraiture with architectural fantasy. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Drawings and Prints department, this piece highlights how prints democratized access to elite collections, inspiring artists and collectors alike. Fun fact: Bacchus's lively gaze and vine-like surrounds evoke the Dionysian spirit, reminding viewers of wine-fueled feasts in ancient Rome—perfect for pondering over a modern museum sip!

About the Artist

Philips Galle|Gerard van Groeningen|Johannes van Doetecum I|Lucas van Doetecum · 1537–1612

Philips Galle (1537–1612) was a leading Netherlandish engraver, designer, and print publisher whose career bridged the vibrant artistic scenes of Haarlem and Antwerp. Born in Haarlem, he studied under the humanist engraver Dirck Volkertsz. Coornhert, honing his skills in reproductive printmaking. Early on, Galle produced engravings after the Haarlem master Maarten van Heemskerck, capturing the Man...