The Assassination of Julius Caesar
1400
45.0 x 151.0 cm
This panel depicts the death of Julius Caesar in a continuous narrative, with four sequential scenes in one setting. The story reads from left to right: priests warn Caesar not to go to the Senate; Caesar refuses to look at the scroll that identifies the conspirators and their plans; conspirators stab Caesar at the Senate; Caesar is placed in honor on his funeral pyre. Though the costumes and setting are late 15th-century Italian, viewers at that time would have been familiar with the story of Julius Caesar and would have understood the narrative as a depiction of ancient Rome. The artist included Trajan’s column, a key monument, at the far right to emphasize this point. This painting decorated a cassone, one of a pair of wedding chests that a groom ordered for his bedchamber. 15th-century Italians traced their ancestry back to the ancient Romans. Images of their forebears’ lives reflect pride in their lineage. This association is appropriate for a room concerned with the continuance of the family line.
master of the apollini sacrum (? – ?)
Discover the master of the Apollini Sacrum, a prolific 15th-century Tuscan artist known for his detailed panels and historical themes like Julius Caesar's death. Explore his works and artistic legacy.
About this artwork
- Title: The Assassination of Julius Caesar
- Artist: master of the apollini sacrum
- Year: 1400
- Original dimensions: 45.0 x 151.0 cm
- Format: Panoramic
- Copyright status: Under copyright
- Color palette: Earthy
- Color hue: Yellow-Green Range