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Tarquinius Priscus Entering Rome
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.
About this work
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.
Cleveland Museum of Art’s own descriptionCredit lineTarquinius Priscus Entering Rome, c. 1470. Jacopo del Sellaio (Italian, c. 1441–1493). Tempera on wood, mounted on canvas; framed: 81.9 x 202.2 x 11.4 cm (32 1/4 x 79 5/8 x 4 1/2 in.); unframed: 41 x 165.4 cm (16 1/8 x 65 1/8 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Bequest of John L. Severance, 1942.646
