Apollo and Phaëthon
circa 1731
Tiepolo captures the chaotic moment before disaster in this swirling Rococo masterpiece, likely a sketch for a grand ceiling fresco. At the top, Father Time swings his scythe, watching as Phaethon begs his father Apollo to let him drive the sun chariot—a reckless request that will literally set the world on fire. The oval composition pulls the viewer into a dizzying sky filled with gods, rearing horses, and billowing clouds. It's a perfect example of Tiepolo's ability to make ancient mythology feel like a high-energy action scene, full of drama and movement.
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