Robert Mapplethorpe and the Classical Tradition: Photographs and Mannerist Prints
July 24-October 17, 2004
Robert Mapplethorpe and the Classical Tradition explores the dialogue between the photography of Robert Mapplethorpe and classical art, in particular late-sixteenth-century Netherlandish Mannerist prints through the engravings and woodcuts of Hendrick Goltzius, Jan Harmensz. Muller, Jacob Matham, and Jan Saenredam.
A selection of sculptures highlights the dialogue of Mapplethorpe's photographs and the Mannerist prints with classical antiquity, further illustrating the compelling interrelationships and a broader understanding of the history of art.
The electric and emotive potency of love and Eros, which informs many of the Mannerist works in the exhibition, is expressed as well in the work of Robert Mapplethorpe, whose sometimes shocking photographs reveal compelling strength and a nervous energy.
rganized by the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation, New York, and the State Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg, the exhibition travels after Berlin to St. Petersburg and other venues.