Atlas

Joseph Anthony Mugnaini

A lithograph done by Joseph Mugnaini in 1953, working with the California Master Printer, lithographer Lynton Kistler. From a series of mythological themes done in editions of 20. This impression is accompanied by an 'authentication' from Kistler and signed by Mugnaini.

Mugnaini began his long-time collaboration with author Ray Bradbury in 1952, during which time he interpreted and illustrated many of Bradbury's books, including "Fahrenheit 451" through the "Martian Chronicles".

Atlas was the leader of the Titans in their war against Zeus. Once defeated, Atlas was condemned to carry the heavens upon his shoulders. His symbol is the celestial sphere and he personified the quality of endurance. He was also the god who instructed mankind in the art of astronomy. Atlas also turned the heavens on their axis, causing the stars to revolve.