Jupiter and Semele
ca. 1540-45
This dramatic drawing captures the fatal mythological moment where Jupiter reveals his true divine form to his mortal lover, Semele. The bearded god hovers amidst swirling clouds and wind-blown faces, wielding flaming lightning bolts that will ultimately consume the reclining woman below. The elongated, twisting figures and chaotic energy are classic hallmarks of Mannerism, a style prioritizing emotional intensity over calm realism. Although an inscription at the bottom reads 'Rosso fiorentino,' pointing to the famous Mannerist master, this work is attributed to Luca Penni, a fellow artist of the School of Fontainebleau who shared this fiery, dynamic aesthetic.
Views: 2