The Rape of Europa —Neapolitan Caravaggist of the 1st Half of the 17th Century, The Rape of Europa —Neapolitan Caravaggist of the 1st Half of the 17th Century

113 x 139 cm

The mesmerizing realm of Greek mythology is one of the greatest sources for artists to exhibit their technical brilliance and unique interpretations. Without a doubt, the Rape of Europa is one of the canonical myths. Jupiter, the most powerful of the gods, was in love with Princess Europa and decided to seduce her. He adopted the shape of a beautiful white bull, and induced the girl to climb onto his back. As soon as he did, the bull headed out to sea and transported the terrified Europa from her native Sidon to the island of Crete. The present painting clearly shows the influence of the models of Caravaggio. Here the artist rendered the feminine charm of female figures in an impressive variety. The contrast between the whiteness of the ox, the light female bodies and the surrounding landscape is enhanced by the colorful pieces of fabric, and above all, by the large red scarf blown up by the wind. In the present painting, Europa is shown at the moment when her disquiet at being abducted begins to turn to love, as a result of the unusual presence of cupid. The bright and clear palette used in this work is typical of Neapolitan painting between the end of the seventeenth and the beginning of the eighteenth century.
Oil on canvas, relined.
113 x 139 cm