Dear Lace Scholars, "Unfolding Pictures" 23 - Aurora & Apollo Fan c. 1780
This is a much-reproduced image of Guido Reni's most popular painting (1614-15) . It has been given several names through the years, including "Triumph of Aurora" and just plain "Aurora". The Victorians, in particular, copied it on little boxes, mirror backs, etc. Last month, I saw a small tapestry copy in a British decorating magazine! It has also been painted on a grand scale on ceilings at Chatsworth (England) and the Flagler Museum (Palm Beach, USA). The original painting resides at the Palazzo Rospigliosi Pallavicini (Italy). In my collection, which was started 25+ years ago, is a 3-panel set of Point de Venise (needlelace) depicting the painting. These panels were intended to be hung over and around a door. The main over-door piece (80" x 25") contains the image in a cameo-like central motif with a background of florals, urns, scrolls. The two side panels (77" x 31") have lovely flying birds, putti in a small chariot, florals, urns, scrolls and a family coat of arms that has words to the effect: "Live, so you may live". There is no indication of where the lace was made, or by whom. Twelve years ago, I went to a country auction preview in Maine, and found a very dirty water-stained steel engraving of Aurora - just a bit larger than the central image of the lace. The frame holding the engraving was very beautiful, and I knew it would be attractive to decorators. Still, I attended the auction, and fought for the engraving that would give the lace more "provenance". It then was taken to a very expert paper restorer and a frame restorer. On the engraving is an explanation in Latin, which was translated by the daughter of an Arachne: "Golden Sun went out, drawn by his four-yoked horses. The Morning Star, around whom the Seven Hours in different garments stand, flew on ahead. Flee the swift light of the Sun, Aurora, conqueress of the shadows, Lest you retreat, conquered." It is interesting that the eye is drawn to Apollo, the horses and figures around the chariot - not to Aurora, who flies ahead! The Morning Star is represented by a putti carrying a torch. Google: Aurora by Guido Reni ----------------------------------------------------------------------- In my next memo, a book connection to fan number 54. Jeri Ames in Maine USA Lace & Embroidery Resource Center - To unsubscribe send email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] containing the line: unsubscribe lace [EMAIL PROTECTED] For help, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
