Artwork
Aurora Taking Leave of Tithonus
Aurora Taking Leave of Tithonus is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Francesco Solimena. It dates from 1704 and is held in the collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum.
About this work
Overview
Aurora Taking Leave of Tithonus is a 1704 oil painting by Francesco Solimena, a prominent Neapolitan artist. The work exemplifies Solimena's style, blending dynamic composition with classical restraint.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a scene from mythology: Aurora, the goddess of dawn, bids farewell to her mortal lover Tithonus. Aurora is shown in motion, wearing a flowing white dress, while Tithonus looks on from the ground, shirtless and draped in yellow cloth.
Technique & Style
Solimena's use of chiaroscuro creates a dramatic contrast between the brightly lit figures and the dark background, adding depth to the scene. The artist's characteristic blend of light and shade is evident, influenced by earlier artists such as Luca Giordano and Mattia Preti.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Francesco Solimena (4 October 1657 – 3 April 1747) was a prolific Italian Baroque painter, one of an established family of painters and draughtsmen.
