The Angel and the Head-huntress. A Reading of Plate 47 of the Mnemosyne Atlas

This reading of table 47 of the Atlas Mnemosyne is illustrated through thematic and plastic paths. The thematic analysis cuts the panel into two vertical sections, divided into homogeneous subgroups. On the left hand side, figures from the New and the Old Testament stage episodes of protection (a young Jesus returning from the Temple; Tobias saved by the Angel). On the right hand side, we recognize figures from the Old Testament, protagonists of violent acts of aggression (Judith, Salome, Samson). In the second phase, the analysis aims to identify some Pathosformeln plastically defined, which cross over the thematic paths: the gesture of protection and care 'taking by hand' (Angel or Mary); the gesture of the guide that shows the way (the Angel); the act of aggression (Judith, Samson); the pace of the ancient nymph which emerges in the graceful movements of the angel, as well as in the seductive stride of a head-huntress (Judith and Salome).