Artwork
The Rape of Ganymede
The Rape of Ganymede is an ink drawing by the Renaissance artist Niccolò dell' Abate. It dates from 1545 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Rape of Ganymede is a drawing by Niccolò dell' Abate, created around 1545 using a mix of media including pen and ink, brown wash, watercolor, and white heightening on laid paper.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts the abduction of Ganymede by an eagle-like figure, shown with sharp claws and feathers, carrying a calm-looking young man amidst swirling dark clouds.
Technique & Style
Dell'Abate employed soft brown washes to create depth, particularly in the sky and feathers, and used white highlights to make the wings and the boy's skin stand out against the darker background.
Artist & collection
Prometheus Bound
The Archangel Michael
Copy after Giulio Romano's Fall of Icarus
Guardian Angel
Saturn Wrestling with a Snake
Jupiter and Ganymede Above an Extensive Landscape
Gloria
The Triumph of Truth Over Envy
The Vision of Ezekiel
Studies for Saint Michael Defeating the Rebel Angels
Saint Michael Archangel attacking the dragon
Study for "An Apotheosis of a Saint" (for San Bernardino dei Morti, Milan)