The Battle of the Amazons

Renaissance Italian printmaker Enea Vico specialized in ancient history scenes, illustrations of medals, and classically inspired decorations. This shield-like engraving captures the fervor of battle waged by the mythical race of Amazons, warrior women who lived in a male-free society and cut off their left breasts as a sign of bravery. Enea Vico did not demonstrate this anatomical peculiarity, but neither did the ancient Greek sculptures he likely consulted to create the work.