Rhea Silvia Collection

History Taught through Truth, 1677-1755. Creator: Elias van Nijmegen
History Taught through Truth, 1677-1755. Design for a painting

Detail: "Martyrdom of Rhea Silvia", 1411-12
6253680 Detail: " Martyrdom of Rhea Silvia", 1411-12 by Fabriano, Gentile da (c.1370-1427); Palazzo Trinci, Foligno, Umbria, Italy; (add.info.: Foligno)

Detail: "Martyrdom of Rhea Silvia", 1411-12
6253697 Detail: " Martyrdom of Rhea Silvia", 1411-12 by Fabriano, Gentile da (c.1370-1427); Palazzo Trinci, Foligno, Umbria, Italy; (add.info.: Foligno)

Detail: "Martyrdom of Rhea Silvia", 1411-12
6253663 Detail: " Martyrdom of Rhea Silvia", 1411-12 by Fabriano, Gentile da (c.1370-1427); Palazzo Trinci, Foligno, Umbria, Italy; (add.info.: Foligno)

Rhea Silvia (engraving)
669592 Rhea Silvia (engraving) by Leech, John (1817-64); Private Collection; (add.info.: Rhea Silvia. Illustration for The Comic History of Rome by Gilbert Abbott a Beckett (Bradbury, Evans, c 1850)

Mars and Rhea Silvia (brush & brown ink heightened with white body colour on carta
615269 Mars and Rhea Silvia (brush & brown ink heightened with white body colour on carta azzurra) by Pupini, Biagio (fl.1530-40); 26.5x41.8 cm; eThe Devonshire Collections

Mars and Rhea Silvia: in the centre Mars holds a shield and sword, Rhea Silvia sleeping, Apollo in his chariot upper left, ca 1531-76

Rhea Silvia, 1852. Artist: John Leech
Rhea Silvia, 1852. The mother of Romulus and Remus. From The Comic History of Rome, by Gilbert A A Beckett, illustrated by John Leech. [Bradbury, Agnew & Co, London, 1852]

Mars and Rhea Silvia, c. 1616-1617. Artist: Rubens, Pieter Paul (1577-1640)
Mars and Rhea Silvia, c. 1616-1617. Found in the collection of the Liechtenstein Museum

Rhea Silvia 1532 Engraving Sheet 5 13 / 16 3 15 / 16
Artokoloro

Mars Rhea Silvia centre Mars holds shield sword
Artokoloro

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"Rhea Silvia: A Tale of Martyrdom and Myth" In the realm of art, the name Rhea Silvia resounds with a haunting allure. Depicted in various forms throughout history, her story captivates audiences with its tragic twists and turns. One such portrayal is found in the masterpiece "Martyrdom of Rhea Silvia, " created between 1411-12. This engraving transports us to a world where gods and mortals intertwine. We witness Mars, the god of war, entangled in an illicit affair with Rhea Silvia, a vestal virgin sworn to chastity. The delicate brushstrokes in "Mars and Rhea Silvia" by Heinrich Aldegrever bring their forbidden love to life. In another rendition by John Leech from 1852, we see Rhea Silvia as a symbol of innocence amidst political turmoil. Her fate hangs precariously as she becomes embroiled in power struggles beyond her control. The artist's skillful hand captures both vulnerability and resilience within her gaze. Pieter Paul Rubens' interpretation from c. 1616-1617 delves deeper into the complexities surrounding this mythological figure. In "Mars and Rhea Silvia, " we witness Mars holding his shield and sword while she slumbers peacefully beside him—a stark contrast that hints at impending tragedy. The repeated inclusion of details from the "Martyrdom of Rhea Silvia" emphasizes the enduring fascination with this tale across centuries. Each artist adds their unique perspective, shedding light on different facets of her story—her struggle against societal expectations, her defiance against divine intervention, or perhaps even her ultimate sacrifice for love. While some may focus solely on the controversial aspect—the rape suffered by Rhea Silvia—it is essential to acknowledge that these artistic interpretations offer more than just sensationalism; they provide an opportunity for reflection and contemplation.