Naval Battle in the Strait of Messina, 1561

About the Work

This topographically precise portrayal of the Strait of Messina was presumably based on direct observations Bruegel made on his travels in Italy. It represents an exception in his oeuvre. To the left we can make out Sicily with the characteristic summit of Mount Etna, to the right Calabria. The supplementary explanation at the lower right calls to mind the mythical sea monster Scylla and the dangers of passing through the strait. Consisting of two sheets, this print is the largest engraving after a design by Bruegel.