Home > Arts > Artists > L > Gerard de Lairesse
Mercury Ordering Calypso to Release Odysseus, c.1680. Creator: Gerard de Lairesse
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Mercury Ordering Calypso to Release Odysseus, c.1680. Creator: Gerard de Lairesse
Mercury Ordering Calypso to Release Odysseus, c.1680
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 36315762
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Caduceus Calypso De Lairesse Gerard Dressing Up Dutch Golden Age Feather Feathers Flying Gerard De Lairesse Hand Gestures Helmet Hilt Lairesse Gerard De Lover Lovers Mercury Odysseus Odyssey Ostrich Feather Ostrich Feathers Ulysses Winged Figure Blade Golden Age Greek Mythology Nakedness
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Birds
> Ostriches
> Related Images
> Animals
> Mammals
> Cricetidae
> Golden Mouse
> Arts
> Artists
> L
> Gerard de Lairesse
> Europe
> Netherlands
> Paintings
> Europe
> Netherlands
> Posters
> Europe
> Netherlands
> Related Images
> Historic
> Ancient civilizations
> Ancient Greece
> Greek mythology
EDITORS COMMENTS
Mercury Ordering Calypso to Release Odysseus," a captivating oil painting by the renowned Dutch artist Gerard de Lairesse, dates back to the 17th century and is a stunning representation of Greek mythology. The painting depicts the moment when the winged messenger god Mercury, dressed in full armor and adorned with an ostrich-feathered headdress, commands Calypso, a beautiful nymph, to release the hero Odysseus from her enchanted island. Mercury, with a firm hand gesture and a determined look in his eyes, points towards Calypso, who is shown in the painting as a naked woman, dressed only in a net or a loose robe. She looks up at Mercury with a mixture of resignation and sadness, as she realizes she must obey the god's command. In the background, clouds form ominously, hinting at the impending storm that would carry Odysseus back to his homeland. The painting is a testament to the rich artistic heritage of the Dutch Golden Age and the enduring appeal of Greek mythology. The use of vibrant colors and intricate details, such as the intricate design on Mercury's armor and the delicate folds of Calypso's robe, add to the painting's visual appeal. The contrast between the powerful, winged figure of Mercury and the vulnerable, naked form of Calypso highlights the themes of love, power, and the passage of time. This masterpiece, now housed in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, is a must-see for anyone interested in the arts, literature, or the history of European culture. The painting's timeless beauty and the intriguing story it tells continue to captivate viewers and inspire artists to this day.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
