Artwork
Mercurius gelast Calypso om Odysseus te laten vertrekken
Mercurius gelast Calypso om Odysseus te laten vertrekken is an unspecified painting by the Baroque artist Gerard de Lairesse. It dates from 1680 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
This painting depicts a scene from Homer's Odyssey, where Mercury is sent by Jupiter to instruct Calypso to release Odysseus from her island.
Subject & Meaning
The work illustrates a pivotal moment in the ancient Greek epic: Mercury, messenger of the gods, persuades Calypso to let Odysseus return home, ending her captivation.
Technique & Style
The artist employs chiaroscuro, with deep shadows and bright highlights, to create a dramatic atmosphere, characteristic of the Baroque style.
History & Provenance
The painting was created for Mary Stuart's apartments in Soestdijk Palace, as part of a series of works exemplifying exemplary love and devotion.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Gerard or Gérard (de) Lairesse (French pronunciation: ; 11 September 1641 – June 1711) was a Dutch Golden Age painter and art theorist.
