An artwork on Galleree from Minneapolis Institute of Art.
About the artwork
Two Muses (Erato and Melpomene)c.1500-1505
Artist: Workshop of Filippino Lippi; Artist: Master of Memphis, possibly Bernardo di Leonardo; Artist: Formerly attributed to Master of Tavernelle (Niccolò Cartoni?)
Italian, 1457/58 - 1504
Thalia and Melpomene
11 1/16 x 8 7/16 x 1/8 in. (28.1 x 21.43 x 0.32 cm) (panel)
16 x 13 1/2 x 2 1/4 in. (40.64 x 34.29 x 5.72 cm) (outer frame)
Probably tempera and oil (tempera grassa) on panel
Painting
Italy
16th century
The Putnam Dana McMillan Fund
In the vibrant tapestry of Greek mythology, there exists a small constellation of divine figures known as the Muses. These nine ethereal goddesses weave the fabric of creativity, each cradling her unique realm of influence as if it were a delicate thread in a grander design. Imagine a soft breeze stirring the air, carrying the laughter of Thalia, the Muse of comedy and pastoral poetry. Picture her dancing lightly in a meadow, adorned with a mask that captures joy's essence and a musical instrument that resonates with the laughter of the earth itself. She stands before a humble altar, her lyre resting atop, bathed in the warm glow of sunlight, that may very well be a blessing from Apollo, the radiant sun god.
Then, in the shadows of human emotion, there is Melpomene, the Muse of Tragedy. With her mask, she embodies the sorrow woven into the human experience, a small horn resting in her grasp, echoing the somber notes of life’s heavier melodies. The interplay between these two Muses, one glowing with light and laughter, the other cloaked in the weight of sorrow, invites a profound exploration of the human condition.
This captivating scene comes alive in a fresco nestled in the Strozzi Chapel of the Santa Maria Novella church, painted by Filippino Lippi, a luminary of the Florentine art world during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. The fresco was carefully crafted between 1493 and 1502, its vibrant colors and intricate details beckoning viewers to pause and reflect on the stories it tells. Yet, in this narrative, the credit for the work goes not solely to Lippi but also to an enigmatic figure within his workshop, affectionately dubbed the "Master of Memphis." This title traces its roots to another significant piece attributed to him, "Saint Francis in Glory," now gracing the city of Memphis at the Brooks Museum.
Yet, as we stand before this fresco today, we owe our gratitude to art historian Jonathan Nelson, whose keen eye helped clarify the work's attribution and dating. Thanks to his insights, the tales of Thalia, Melpomene, and their celestial dance continue to resonate with us, reminding us of the rich narratives that art bestows upon the world. Each brushstroke whispers a story, inviting us to draw closer, to feel deeper, and ultimately, to connect through the artistry of these divine Muses.
About the artist
Inspiring wonder through the power of art. The Minneapolis Institute of Art enriches the community by collecting, preserving, and making accessible outstanding works of art from the world’s diverse cultures.
The artworks shared on this platform are sourced from the museum's Open Access data under the CC0 license. No endorsement is implied.
Address: 2400 Third Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota 55404
The best place to view Minneapolis Institute of Art‘s artwork is on Galleree. Hear the story behind this work, interact with the image, discuss with people, curate your own playlists, and discover so much more from great artists and institutions alike.