The Dream of Human Life

This graphic sheet is also modelled on a drawing created for Tommaso Cavalieri c. 1533/1534. Fame awakens the dreaming youth who is shown leaning against a globe, seated on a stool full of masks (illusions). Depicted around him are the personifications of the six mortal sins (with only Pride missing). The youth himself may represent Pride sated with illusions; Fame is to awaken him and convince him to abandon temptation and set out on his own path to fame.