Artwork
Rape of Europa
Rape of Europa is an ink print by the Romanticist artist François-Philippe Charpentier. It dates from 1763 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Rape of Europa is a print created by François-Philippe Charpentier in 1763 using etching and aquatint techniques on laid paper. The work is part of the National Gallery of Art, Washington collection.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts the mythological scene of Europa's abduction by Jupiter, disguised as a bull. Europa sits on the bull's back as two men attempt to restrain it. A cherub flies above, and palm trees stand in the background, set against a distant body of water.
Technique & Style
Charpentier employed etching and aquatint to create the print, using a predominantly brown color palette. The technique of aquatint, which he helped develop, allows for tonal variations, contributing to the work's atmospheric quality.
History & Provenance
François-Philippe Charpentier, born in 1734 in Blois, France, was trained in Paris after leaving a Jesuit college. He later became known for his innovations in aquatint engraving techniques.
Artist & collection
Artist
François-Philippe Charpentier (b. Blois, 1734; d. there 22 July 1817) was a French engraver and inventor. His father was a bookbinder, a poor man who reportedly made many sacrifices so that his son might attend the…
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