This painting is part of the group: Classical Heroines from a Sienese Bedchamber
Explore the paintings
Room A Screen 6
Marcia was the wife of Cato, who ceded her to his friend Hortensius. After Hortensius' death, she returned to Cato.
Both this painting and 'Tanaquil' are part of a series of works representing famous women of antiquity. Like Mantegna's 'The Vestal Virgin Tuccia with a Sieve' and 'A Woman Drinking' they were no doubt incorporated into the furniture of a room.
The costumes and hair-styles suggest the approximate dating for this work.
Other paintings in this group: Classical Heroines from a Sienese Bedchamber
Items in the shop
The National Gallery, Trafalgar Square, London WC2N 5DN