Alpheus And Arethusa Painting Mythological Scene 18th Century Artemis

A beautiful oil painting on canvas from the 18th century. It depicts the legend of Alpheus and Arethusa.

This mythological subject was painted by many artists during the 17th and 18th centuries.

The Fable of Alpheus and Arethusa:
Arethusa, a nymph, is bathing in a stream after a day of hunting in the Stymphalian forests. While she swims peacefully, she is suddenly pursued by Alpheus, a river god who has fallen in love with her. Frightened, Arethusa flees at full speed, crossing several mountains, but Alpheus, faster and more persistent, continues to chase her. Exhausted and unable to flee anymore, Arethusa begs Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, for help. To protect her, Artemis first hides Arethusa under a cloud, but Alpheus persists. Eventually, the goddess transforms Arethusa into a fountain, thinking this will end the chase. However, Alpheus, tireless, turns into a river and seeks to unite his waters with those of Arethusa. He digs an underground tunnel between Greece and Sicily to reach the fountain of Arethusa. The fountain then emerges on the island of Ortygia in Sicily, where the sacred fountain of Arethusa gushes forth. Despite her transformation, Alpheus’ waters manage to mix with those of the nymph, symbolizing their eternal union. According to legend, Greek flowers sometimes appear in the source of Arethusa in Sicily, and objects thrown into the river Alpheus in Greece reappear in the fountain, signifying that the two lovers remain connected through the elements.

The painting has been relined and is in very good condition.
Sold without a frame.

Canvas dimensions: 59 x 31 cm.

We are looking for old paintings, even damaged ones!

Photos are taken in natural light.
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