Frans Francken II (Antwerp 1581-1642) and Studio

Frans Francken II depicted this scene from Roman history, as told by Livy (XXVI:50), in several versions. The Roman general Scipio, having captured the city of New Carthage, was presented with a beautiful young maiden, as part of the spoils of war. Learning that the girl was betrothed, he summoned her intended husband, Allucius, and restored her to him unharmed. When the family of the bride presented Scipio with treasures, thanking him for this act of clemency, he presented it to the young couple as a wedding dowry.