VERTUMNUS
by Giuseppe Arcimboldo, 1591
This is Vertumnus, supervisor of our new Botanical Gardens, painted by Giuseppe Arcimboldo.
In Roman mythology, Vertumnus is the god of seasons, change and plant growth, as well as gardens and fruit trees. He could change his form at will. Vertumnus' cult arrived in Rome around 300 BC, and a temple to him was constructed on the Aventine Hill by 264 BC.
Vertumnus consists of multiple fruits, vegetables and flowers that come together to create a portrait of Roman Emperor Rudolf II. Arcimboldo was employed in Rudolf II's court and Vertumnus has become one of his most popular paintings. This portrait of the emperor is created out of edible plants from all seasons: gourds, pears, apples, cherries, grapes, wheat, artichokes, beans, peas, corns, onions, cabbage foils, chestnuts, figs, mulberries, plums, pomegranates, various pumpkins and olives.
These are far from arbitrary.
For example, the use of corn as Rudolf´s ear (a crop originating from the New World) can be seen as a pointedly political decision. By putting in particular foreign crops, Rudolf II is revealing that he has access to these items showcasing his power and wealth.
For visiting the Botanical Gardens: click on the announcement below and follow the green signs.
