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Arethusa Pursued by Alpheus and Turned into a Fountain, 1731 (engraving)
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Arethusa Pursued by Alpheus and Turned into a Fountain, 1731 (engraving)
STC134135 Arethusa Pursued by Alpheus and Turned into a Fountain, 1731 (engraving) by Picart, Bernard (1673-1733); Private Collection; The Stapleton Collection; French, out of copyright
Media ID 23367652
© The Stapleton Collection / Bridgeman Images
Arrow Arrows Artemis Chase Cupid Diana Escaping Firing Helping Hesperides Lover Metamorphoses Metamorphosis Nymph Ovid Pursuing Pursuit Transforming Ortygia
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This engraving, titled "Arethusa Pursued by Alpheus and Turned into a Fountain" transports us to the mythical world of love, transformation, and divine intervention. Created in 1731 by Bernard Picart, this print showcases his exceptional talent for capturing intricate details and evoking powerful emotions. The scene unfolds with Arethusa, a beautiful nymph known for her association with rivers and fountains. She is depicted fleeing from Alpheus, a river god consumed by desire. With every stride she takes, her fear is palpable as she desperately tries to escape his relentless pursuit. In the background looms an ethereal cloud symbolizing divine intervention. It represents Artemis or Diana, the goddess of hunting and protector of virgins like Arethusa. The cloud transforms into a fountain just in time to save her from Alpheus' grasp. Picart's masterful use of shading brings depth to this enchanting artwork while highlighting the contrasting emotions at play - fear versus hope; pursuit versus salvation. Cupid can be seen firing arrows above them alluding to the power of love that drives both pursuer and pursued. This engraving draws inspiration from Ovid's Metamorphoses where mythological tales unfold through transformations. It also references Hesperides - nymphs who guarded sacred groves - further emphasizing themes of protection and escape. "Arethusa Pursued by Alpheus and Turned into a Fountain" invites viewers on an emotional journey filled
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