Other Nymphs Serving Psyche at the Table

Other Nymphs Serving Psyche at the Table, created between 1530 and 1540, is an Italian engraving by the Master of the Die (Italian, active c. 1530-1560). This print exemplifies the complex system of artistic reproduction prevalent in the sixteenth century, as Die based his composition on a design by Michiel Coxcie I (Flemish, 1499-1592), who in turn had been inspired by the great High Renaissance master Raffaello Sanzio, known as Raphael. Executed using warm brown ink on cream laid paper, the work showcases the highly technical precision required for Renaissance-era prints.

The development of reproductive prints was crucial for disseminating the distinctive visual style of masters like Raphael across Italy and northern Europe. The specific subject is drawn from classical mythology, focusing on the story of Psyche being attended to by various nymphs. The Master of the Die, or simply Die, was instrumental in translating large-scale frescoes and ceiling decorations into portable, collectible formats. The skillful handling of the engraving tools transforms the volumetric figures of the original designs into a sophisticated two-dimensional representation suitable for wide distribution.

This classification as a print highlights the popularity of graphic arts during the Mannerist period in Italy. Works such as Other Nymphs Serving Psyche at the Table served both as affordable art for connoisseurs and as source material for other artists seeking access to Roman High Renaissance innovations. This significant historical document is preserved in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, offering valuable insight into the collaborative and multi-layered creation processes of the era. Many prints from this pivotal period are now widely available in the public domain, making the influence of artists like Raphael and Die accessible globally.