Home > Animals > Mammals > Cricetidae > Tarquinius
She carried in her arms nine books, c1912 (1912). Artist: Ernest Dudley Heath
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
She carried in her arms nine books, c1912 (1912). Artist: Ernest Dudley Heath
She carried in her arms nine books, c1912 (1912). Lucius Tarquinius Superbus (died 495 BC) the seventh king of Rome, was offered the sacred prophecies of Sybyl Cumae by an old women asking an exorbitant price, he refused and six of the books were burnt before he relented. The books were thereafter kept in the Temple of Jupiter on the Capitoline Hill, Rome, to be consulted in times of emergency. From The Story of Rome, by Mary MacGregor. [Thomas Nelson and Sons Ltd. 1912]
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14970909
© The Print Collector
6th Century Bc Action Blessed Books Cumaean Sibyl Dudley Dudley Heath Ernest Ernest Dudley Ernest Dudley Heath Heath His Majesty Lucius Tarquinius Superbus Macgregor Mary Macgregor Offering Prophecy Refusal Refusing Sacred Sibyl Superbus Tarquinius Tarquinius Superbus Throne
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Mammals
> Cricetidae
> Tarquinius
> Arts
> Artists
> Related Images
> Europe
> Italy
> Lazio
> Rome
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photo print, we witness a powerful scene from ancient Rome. A woman, adorned in an exquisite costume of vibrant colors, gracefully carries nine books in her arms. This artwork by Ernest Dudley Heath transports us back to the year 495 BC when Lucius Tarquinius Superbus reigned as the seventh king of Rome. The image is inspired by a significant event in Roman history. It depicts the moment when an old woman approached King Tarquinius with sacred prophecies from Sybyl Cumae. However, she demanded an exorbitant price for these precious books. The stubborn monarch initially refused and even allowed six of the books to be burned before realizing their value. These remaining three books were then safeguarded within the Temple of Jupiter on Capitoline Hill for consultation during times of crisis or emergency. The photograph beautifully captures the essence of this historical tale, showcasing not only religious devotion but also political power dynamics. Through its vivid portrayal, this print invites us to reflect upon themes such as refusal and acceptance, prophecy and destiny, and the delicate balance between divine guidance and human decision-making. It serves as a visual reminder that even great rulers must sometimes humble themselves before higher forces. This remarkable piece offers a glimpse into ancient Roman culture while honoring both artist Ernest Dudley Heath's skillful interpretation and Mary MacGregor's compelling account in "The Story of Rome. "
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.