In Pisa, near Blue palacea fascinating work of Artemisia Gentileschi: “Clio, muse of history”, Painted in 1632 in Naples. This masterpiece not only testifies to the link between the artist and its Pisan roots, but continues to arouse questions on its profound meaning. Some scholars have interpreted the work as A reflection of the same Artemisiaat the time an established and independent painter, eager to consolidate his fame.
Clio, the muse of history, is recognizable thanks to its iconographic attributes: the Ghirlanda on the head symbolizes immortality, the trumpet represents the resonance of historical events and the Open book It refers to the recording of the story, often associated with Tucidide.
The figure is without wings, distinguishing it from the allegory of fame. Clio wears one dress rust superimposed on a blue silk tunicembellished with golden pins and a pearl earring. His gaze is proud, turned to the future, and the Caravaggesca light accentuates its heroic bearing.
The signature of Artemisia
A distinctive element of the painting is the Signature of Artemisiaaffixed to the book next to the name “Rosiers”. The scholar Mary Garrard identified this name with Antonie de Rosières II, linked to Carlo di Lorena, Duke of Guisa, probable client of the work.
Another theory, advanced by Raymond Ward Bissell, connects the name to François de Rosièreshistorian of the Casata di Lorena, known for building false documents in support of a descent from Charlemagne. This link suggests that the Duke wanted claim your place in historyjust like his ancient councilor.
Carlo di Guisain exile in Italy after the political defeat suffered in 1631, could have commissioned the painting as a sort of reaffirmation of one’s dignity. The signature of Artemisia, clearly visible on the book, also seems to want emphasize his own desire for artistic immortality. The historic Elizabeth Cropper has highlighted how the secure laying of Clio reflects not only the fame desired by the Duke, but also what Artemisia itself aspires to consolidate.
Today, “Clio, Musa of history” is read not only as a work linked to political and dynastic events, but also as symbol of the strength and ambition of her authorwhich with his art has been able to impose himself in a world dominated by men.
