The Bewitched Groom (1453) Andrea Mantegna (1431-1506)

Here we observe a scene rendered in meticulous detail through linear engraving. The composition is divided into two distinct registers, each contributing to a narrative of bewitchment and humiliation.
The upper register presents an interior space defined by architectural elements – beams, walls, and a doorway – that create depth and perspective. A large horse dominates this area; its posture suggests a state of agitation or perhaps forced participation in the unfolding events. Adjacent to the horse, a figure appears to be manipulating it, seemingly exerting some form of control. The facial expression of this individual is difficult to discern precisely, but there’s an implication of malicious intent or amusement at the situation.
The lower register shifts focus to a man lying prone on the floor. His body language conveys distress and helplessness; his face is contorted in an expression of anguish, and his limbs are splayed awkwardly. A grotesque mask covers his head, obscuring his identity and emphasizing the dehumanizing nature of his predicament. A small animal – possibly a dog or fox – is perched on his back, adding to the sense of absurdity and degradation. Scattered around him are tools: a hammer, a brush, and what appears to be a book resting on a box. These objects suggest a trade or profession that has been disrupted by this supernatural intervention.
The overall effect is one of unsettling humor mingled with social commentary. The scene likely draws upon folklore surrounding witchcraft and the disruption of societal order. The transformation of a man into an animalistic state, coupled with the presence of the controlling figure, suggests themes of deception, power dynamics, and the vulnerability of individuals to external forces – whether magical or metaphorical. The tools scattered around the fallen groom imply that his professional identity has been stripped away, leaving him exposed and humiliated. The image’s stark contrast between light and shadow enhances the dramatic impact and contributes to a feeling of unease.