Late 18th Century Oil Painting On Wood Panel Mercury And Cecrops Daughters

Stunning oil painting on a wooden panel, housed in a carved and gilded wooden frame. The painting depicts Mercury, the messenger of the gods, hovering over the Temple of Vesta in Tivoli. At the center of the composition, Mercury is portrayed according to classical iconography: he wears winged sandals and a helmet adorned with feathers, elements symbolizing his swiftness and divine messenger role. His dynamic and elongated figure is set against a blue sky that gently fades into lighter tones, creating a sensation of lightness and movement. Below, the circular temple of Vesta rises majestically, evoking classical Roman architecture and harmoniously fitting into the surrounding landscape. Beside it, a tree adds depth to the work, while a delicate interplay of light and shadow enriches the context. A distinctive feature of the painting is the presence of five female figures, identified as two maids and the three daughters of Cecrops, who are attentively observing the arrival of Mercury and have a basket on the ground, where Erichthonius is present, a motherless child who will be cared for by the three daughters of Cecrops (Ovid, Metamorphoses, Book II, vv. 553-564). Each figure is characterized by meticulous attention to detail in their costumes and expressions, highlighting their important role in the scene. The painting's artistic quality is exceptional: fluid brushstrokes and vivid colors create a vibrant illumination, bringing life and realism to the details of the landscape and figures. Additionally, the painting has been panel-backed, ensuring greater stability over time and preserving its integrity. This work captures the essence of mythology and the mastery of the Roman School during the Neoclassical period, typical of the late 18th century.

Dimensions: H x W x D overall 59 x 38 x 2.5cm; H x W work only 54.5 x 34cm