Curatorial notes
This is Abraham Bouvier's 1855 print of Ariosto. The original portrait served as a cultural symbol, and was appropriated to establish status and cultural association. This print was made in 19th century Europe, and it offers an interpretation of a Renaissance era portrait. Here, the artist revives Ariosto, the celebrated Italian poet known for "Orlando Furioso," a poem that blends chivalry, love, and adventure, reflecting the cultural values of the Renaissance. The choice of subject matter suggests a nostalgic look back to a period of artistic and literary flourishing, imbuing the sitter with qualities of intellect and refinement. The print's existence speaks to the 19th-century's fascination with the Renaissance, aligning its commissioner with historical greatness. Historians often look at the social context of images like this. Investigating 19th-century attitudes towards the Renaissance helps us understand what cultural role this image was intended to play.
