CIRO FERRI (1634-89)
Perseus armed by Minerva and Jupiter
c.1676RCIN 906835
This is a working study for a huge print dedicated to the Holy Roman Emperor Leopold I, commemorating his role in the defence of Europe against the Ottoman Turks. Europe is personified as Andromeda, menaced by a sea-monster in the background; Jupiter charges Perseus (i.e. Leopold) with his mission, while Minerva oversees the forging of his armour. Two captive Turks are manacled in the foreground. Above, figures of Fame flank an oval intended to frame a portrait of Leopold.