MANTEGNA, Andrea
(b. 1431, Isola di Carturo, d. 1506, Mantova)

Ceiling (detail)

1465-74
Walnut oil on plaster and fresco
Camera degli Sposi, Palazzo Ducale, Mantua

In this detail the last of the twelve tasks of Hercules is represented: the taming of the Cerberus, the guardian of Hades. Next to this, Orpheus is shown playing his lute. ABove these cells the emperors Caesar and Otho are shown.The wall lunettes are decorated with Gonzaga devices, including the spotted salamander and a turtle dove.