Riviergod Scamander 1568

Abraham de Bruyn created this small engraving, Riviergod Scamander, in the Netherlands around 1568. The reclining nude figure of the river god Scamander dominates the foreground. In classical mythology, Scamander was a river god who fought on the side of the Trojans. Here, he leans on an overturned urn from which water flows, symbolizing the river itself. The presence of this classical figure reflects the cultural and intellectual climate of the 16th century, a period known for its revival of interest in classical antiquity. Consider how the print's circulation through the art market shaped the reception of classical themes in Northern Europe. The image is also a window into the social and cultural values of the time, reflecting the influence of classical learning on the artistic production. By exploring archival sources and the history of printmaking, we can better understand the role this artwork played in the cultural landscape of its time. We can also appreciate the complex interplay between artistic creation and social context.