Scene showing that those born under the sign of Sagittarius in conjunction with the setting constellation of Arcturus will be led to commit grave crimes Giulio Romano (1499-1546)

The composition unfolds within a shallow architectural space, dominated by a vaulted ceiling adorned with decorative motifs that frame the central scene. Here we see a group of men, all seemingly incarcerated and bound in chains, occupying the foreground. Their expressions range from weariness and resignation to what appears to be quiet despair. The lighting is uneven, creating dramatic contrasts between areas of shadow and highlights on their faces and bodies.
The arrangement suggests a hierarchical structure within this confinement. A figure, presumably the most significant among them, reclines upon a raised platform or table, his posture conveying an air of authority despite his captivity. He holds what appears to be a staff or scepter, further reinforcing this sense of leadership. Around him are other men, some seated and others kneeling, all similarly restrained. A figure is positioned behind bars in the background, suggesting another level of imprisonment or perhaps observation.
The presence of chains is pervasive; they bind ankles, wrists, and necks, visually emphasizing the theme of restriction and punishment. The artist has rendered these restraints with considerable detail, highlighting their metallic texture and the way they constrict movement. A severed head lies on a small table near the center of the composition, an unsettling element that introduces a sense of violence and potential consequence.
The color palette is muted, primarily consisting of earth tones – browns, ochres, and grays – which contribute to the overall somber mood. The limited use of brighter colors, such as the red draped around one figure’s waist, draws attention to specific details and adds a touch of visual complexity.
Subtly, the scene evokes themes of fate, guilt, and the consequences of predetermined actions. Given the context – that those born under a particular astrological sign are destined for transgression – the painting explores the interplay between individual agency and cosmic influence. The depiction of suffering and confinement suggests not only physical imprisonment but also a psychological burden, hinting at the weight of responsibility for actions seemingly beyond one’s control. The severed head serves as a stark reminder of mortality and the potential severity of these predetermined outcomes.