Clelia’s escape * Pinturicchio (Bernardino di Betto) (c.1452-1513)

The composition presents a narrative scene unfolding within a landscape characterized by varied terrain and subdued lighting. A group of four figures dominates the foreground, arranged around a central equine subject. The unusual hexagonal format immediately draws attention, framing the action in a manner that feels both contained and theatrical.
Two women are prominently positioned on the back of a large, pale horse. One is seated, clad in a yellow garment with a high neckline, her posture suggesting direction or leadership. Beside her stands another woman, dressed in dark attire, seemingly guarding or accompanying them. Their expressions are difficult to discern definitively, but theres an air of urgency and determination about their bearing. The horse itself appears almost ethereal, its coloration contributing to the overall sense of heightened drama.
To the lower right, two additional women occupy a more secluded area, nestled amongst foliage. One is seated on the ground, her head bowed in what could be interpreted as despair or resignation. She wears a patterned dress and sandals, indicating a degree of vulnerability. The woman beside her appears to offer comfort, placing a hand gently on her companion’s shoulder; she is dressed in lighter fabrics with blue accents.
The background reveals a distant castle perched atop a hill, partially obscured by trees. This architectural element suggests a place of importance or refuge, likely the destination for those escaping. The landscape itself transitions from lush greenery to more arid terrain, hinting at the challenges and dangers that lie ahead. A hazy atmosphere softens the details in the distance, creating a sense of depth and emphasizing the immediacy of the foreground action.
Subtleties within the painting suggest themes of flight, protection, and perhaps loss or mourning. The differing attire of the women implies distinct social positions or roles within the narrative. The presence of the horse signifies not only transportation but also nobility and power. The contrast between the active figures on horseback and the despondent pair in the undergrowth creates a poignant juxtaposition, hinting at diverging fates or choices made. The hexagonal format itself contributes to the feeling of enclosure and heightened significance, as if the depicted event is a carefully staged drama meant for observation.