Sophonisba Drinking Poison - Heinrich Aldegrever

A detailed sixteenth-century engraving by Heinrich Aldegrever depicting the tragic historical scene of Sophonisba consuming poison.

This engraving by Heinrich Aldegrever depicts the final moments of the Carthaginian noblewoman Sophonisba. According to historical accounts, she chose to end her life by drinking poison rather than face the humiliation of being paraded in a Roman triumph. Aldegrever, a member of the group known as the Little Masters, demonstrates his technical precision through the use of fine, controlled lines to define form and texture. The composition is structured around the interaction between Sophonisba and the figure of Masinissa, who stands to her left.

Sophonisba is seated, holding a chalice to her lips, while Masinissa observes the act. The background features architectural elements and a tablet containing a Latin inscription, which provides context for the scene. The artist employs cross-hatching to create depth and shadow, particularly in the drapery of the figures and the surrounding interior space. The figures are rendered with a focus on anatomical detail, characteristic of the period's interest in classical subjects.

Aldegrever was based in Soest and was influenced by the work of Albrecht Dürer. His output often included small-scale prints that were highly sought after by collectors of the sixteenth century. This work reflects the period's fascination with moralising historical narratives and the depiction of tragic figures from antiquity. The print is signed with the artist's monogram, AG, which is visible in the lower portion of the composition. The attention to detail in the clothing, particularly the ruffs and the sword hilt, provides insight into the fashion of the era, which Aldegrever often incorporated into his historical scenes.