The Cleveland Museum of Art

Collection Online as of April 25, 2024

The Cassollette: Women Supporting an Urn

The Cassollette: Women Supporting an Urn

c. 1520–27
(Italian, c. 1486–1527)
(Italian, 1470/82–1527/34)
Italy, 16th century
engraving
Gift of The Print Club of Cleveland 1925.1231
Catalogue raisonné: Bartsch XIV.364.490 ; Le Blanc II.112.36 ; Pass. VI.71.58
Location: not on view

Description

Prints helped disseminate design ideas and establish a taste for decorative objects and styles, especially when endorsed with royal insignia. Adapted from Greek architecture, two caryatids—draped female figures used as pillars—hold aloft an ornamental incense burner designed by Raphael about 1515–20 for King François I (reigned 1515–1547). The lily-shaped fleurs-de-lis on its lid allude to the French monarchy. The salamanders adorning the side of the vessel specifically refer to François I, who chose this amphibian as his personal emblem. According to legend, salamanders could survive fire, making them even more meaningful on a burner.
  • Gods and Heroes: Ancient Legends in Renaissance Art. The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (organizer) (August 26-December 31, 2017).
    Early Italian Engraving: 1460's - 1530's. The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (organizer) (August 25-October 27, 2002).
    Master Goldsmiths of the Renaissance: Their Models and Designs. The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (organizer) (November 2, 1982-March 20, 1983).
    Italian Prints and Drawings. The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH (organizer) (January 30-February 25, 1968).
  • {{cite web|title=The Cassollette: Women Supporting an Urn|url=false|author=Marco Dente, Marcantonio Raimondi|year=c. 1520–27|access-date=25 April 2024|publisher=Cleveland Museum of Art}}

Source URL:

https://www.clevelandart.org/art/1925.1231