Calumny of Apelles Alessandro Botticelli (1445-1510)

The painting The Calumny of Apelles by Sandro Botticelli depicts a dramatic allegorical scene set within an elaborate classical architectural space. At the center, a naked, beautiful woman, representing Innocence or Truth, is being dragged forward by Midas (recognizable by his donkey ears), who is being instigated by Envy and Fraud. Midas is being led by Ignorance, who is blindfolded. King Midass left ear is being cuffed by Reverence, and his right ear is being amplified by Suspicion. Following close behind are Repentance and Supplication (Virtue), who are about to lay hold of Midas and lead him away. To the left, a woman with a fiery beard, who represents Calumny or Slander, drags Innocence by the hair, holding a torch to burn her and gesturing toward Midas. She is accompanied by two maidens, Ignorance and Suspicion. Behind Calumny stands Pluto, the god of the underworld, looking back with regret.
The architectural setting is richly decorated with sculptures depicting scenes from classical mythology, likely chosen for their allegorical relevance to the central narrative. The background opens to a seascape, adding to the theatricality of the scene.
The subtexts of the painting are multi-layered and interpret various aspects of human vanity, deceit, and the pursuit of justice. The overall theme is a condemnation of false accusations and the destruction they wreak upon the innocent. The painting is a visual manifestation of the speech by the ancient Greek orator Lucian in his work Calumny, describing a lost painting by Apelles on the same theme. Botticellis interpretation goes beyond Lucians description, focusing on the emotional and moral implications of calumny. The figures personify abstract vices and virtues, illustrating how slander, fueled by envy and ignorance, can unjustly harm truth and innocence, while wisdom and repentance may eventually prevail. The painting serves as a moral lesson, cautioning against the dangers of false accusations and the manipulation of judgment.