# Allegory of the Foundation of Rome

[View the canonical artwork record](<https://beta.wga.hu/artists/flmal-bertholet-r3ab304944029a0/allegory-of-the-foundation-of-rome-r725b587d3e3d90>)

## Artwork

- Artist: [FLÉMAL, Bertholet](<https://beta.wga.hu/artists/flmal-bertholet-r3ab304944029a0>)
- Date: 1651-1700
- Technique: Oil on canvas, 144 x 195 cm

## Commentary

Allegory of the Foundation of Rome c. 1670 Oil on canvas, 144 x 195 cm Private collection This work is a rare interpretation of Rome&#39;s founding; most depictions focus solely on Romulus and Remus, while this complex composition focuses on Victory crowning Bellona \(or Minerva\), the Roman goddess of war. The helmeted divinity - serious, aloof, and of masculine beauty - sits enthroned in her chariot amidst the accoutrements of battle, including standards, trophies, and conquered adversaries. In her right hand, she holds a Victoriola, a small cult statute of Victory. A statue of the she-wolf suckling Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of the city, is visible in the background.

## Related artworks

- [Heliodorus Driven from the Temple](<https://beta.wga.hu/artists/flmal-bertholet-r3ab304944029a0/heliodorus-driven-from-the-temple-r70df5d3395c73c>)
- [Lucius Albinus Giving his Carriage to Vestals](<https://beta.wga.hu/artists/flmal-bertholet-r3ab304944029a0/lucius-albinus-giving-his-carriage-to-vestals-ra909a93417d0a7>)

## Attribution

[Web Gallery of Art](<https://beta.wga.hu/pages/about>)