Cleveland Museum of Art

Tarquinius Priscus Entering Rome

Jacopo del Sellaio

Date

c. 1470

Medium

tempera on wood, mounted on canvas

Culture

Italy, late 15th Century

Department

Medieval Art

Institution

Cleveland Museum of Art

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. This painting utilizes continuous narrative; the same figures appear multiple times as the story unfolds from left to right.

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