Suite of four engravings from Tasso's Gerusalemme Liberata - Bernardo Castello, 18th c.

Important suite of four etchings taken from Torquato Tasso's famous Gerusalemme Liberata, one of the greatest masterpieces of Renaissance epic literature.The compositions derive from drawings by Bernardo Castello (1557-1629), author of the well-known illustrative cycle produced for the first editions of the poem in the late 16th and early 17th centuries.The scenes depict episodes from the chivalric and military narrative of the First Crusade, with a lively and articulate rendering, characterized by a dense interweaving of figures, ideal architectures in the background and a typically Mannerist perspective layout.Of particular interest are the rich engraved architectural frames enclosing the scenes, adorned with putti, scrolls and decorative motifs, conceived as true scenic apparatuses.At the bottom of some plates can be seen the abbreviated inscription "Ber. Caste...", traceable to the author of the drawings, while the initials "C.C.F." likely indicate the engraver or publisher.The four engravings are united in a single large carved and gilded wooden frame of later date, which gives the whole a strong decorative impact.Epoch: 18th centuryTechnique: etching on paperDimensions of engravings (to plate): 18.5 x 27.5 cm eachDimensions overall with frame: 84 x 98 cmPreservation status:Good overall condition. Normal signs of time and slight oxidation of paper. Later mounting and framing.