“The Story of Lucretia,” created by Sandro Botticelli between 1496 and 1504, is an Early Renaissance panel tempera illustration. Measuring 84 by 180 centimeters, the artwork is located in the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston, Massachusetts.
The artwork vividly depicts the tragic tale of Lucretia, an important figure from Roman history known for her virtuousness and the role her story played in the establishment of the Roman Republic. Botticelli masterfully captures multiple scenes within a single frame, demonstrating his skill in storytelling through art. The composition is divided into three distinct scenes: on the left, Lucretia is assaulted by Sextus Tarquinius; in the center, her lifeless body lies on display, surrounded by figures in mourning; and on the right, a group showcases the rebellion incited by her fate. The architectural elements and the dynamic arrangement of the figures emphasize the dramatic narrative, creating a sense of movement and emotional intensity that is characteristic of Botticelli’s work during this period.
