Paolo Veronese Copy After; The Rape Of Europa, Late 19th Early 20th Century, Oil On Canvas

Paolo Veronese copy after

The Rape of Europa

Olio on canvas

in 32,87x25,59

This painting depicts "The Rape of Europa", a mythological subject that was highly favored in Renaissance and Baroque art. The work illustrates the scene from Greek mythology in which Zeus, enamored with the princess Europa, transforms himself into a white bull to abduct her. Europa is the woman seated on the white bull (Zeus). She is elegantly dressed, although her partially exposed breast suggests sensuality and vulnerability. Her handmaidens try to hold her back or react in surprise to the unfolding scene. The animal has a gentle, tame expression and is adorned with floral decorations on its head, symbolizing the deception used by Zeus to seduce Europa. The setting is an idyllic landscape filled with lush trees, a blue sky, and a distant sea. Several female figures and putti (winged cherubs) can be seen flying above and participating in the scene, enhancing its mythological atmosphere. The putti crown Europa with a garland of flowers, reinforcing the romantic and erotic tone of the composition. The entire scene is bathed in a golden light, emphasizing the theatricality of the painting. The work is a copy inspired by Paolo Veronese, a master of the Venetian Renaissance known for his rich use of color, monumental figures, and dynamic compositions. On the reverse, a label reads: "Property of H.R.H. the Duke of Aosta."

in 32,87x25,59

Provenance
Private collection

Defects and restorations.