FONTEBASSO, Francesco
(1707-79) :

The Sacrifice of Iphigeneia, from Varii Baccanali et istorie, a set of eight

Etching, c.1744. De Vesme 9
Provenance: Unidentified paraphe (letter R?)

A fine impression with small margins all round. Very pale foxing, otherwise in good condition. 288 x 395mm.
$4,500

The Goddess Diana relents and comes to Iphigenia’s rescue just as her father King Agamemnon is about to sacrifice her to appease the goddess, one of whose sacred stags he has hunted and killed en route to the Trojan War. The Greek troops will not be allowed to reach Troy unless he acquiesces. As the King starts back in amazement at the reversal of his grim task, the dead stag may be seen lower left.