Philemon and Baucis Visited by Jupiter and Mercury, 1760, Oil on Canvas

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Great Flemish painting from the mid-18th century. Oil on canvas artwork depicting a famous episode from Ovid's Metamorphoses. Jupiter and … Read more Great Flemish painting from the mid-18th century. Oil on canvas artwork depicting a famous episode from Ovid's Metamorphoses. Jupiter and Mercury, disguised as wayfarers, are rejected by all the inhabitants of a region except for an elderly peasant couple, Philemon and Baucis. At this point, a miracle occurs: the wine never runs out, and the table seems to be renewed. At the foot of the table appears the goose, the only animal the couple owns, which the elders nevertheless wish to offer.

But the animal, taking refuge with the Gods, inadvertently reveals its divine nature. It is at this moment that Jupiter and Mercury reveal themselves: their home will be spared from the destruction of the village, and the elders will be able to remain united forever, finally transformed into two intertwined trees, a symbol of love and eternal fidelity. The composition clearly recalls a famous prototype by Jacob Jordaens (1593-1678), a Flemish master among the greatest exponents of 17th-century narrative painting.

A painting of remarkable pictorial quality, rich in minute detail and characterized by a vibrant color palette. The still life on the laid table and the flesh tones, with robust, fleshy bodies typical of Nordic taste, are particularly noteworthy. This large and hard-to-find painting is ideal for a large reception room or hotel lobby.

Perfect for lovers of classical mythology or for those seeking a dramatic work that won't go unnoticed. The painting has already been restored with re-lining, replacement of the stretcher, and restoration of small areas of color, and is in overall good condition. See less