Artwork

Jupiter Nourished by the Goat Almathea

Jupiter Nourished by the Goat Almathea, by Jacob Jordaens, 1652
Jupiter Nourished by the Goat Almathea, by Jacob Jordaens, 1652

Jupiter Nourished by the Goat Almathea is a print by the Baroque artist Jacob Jordaens. It dates from 1652 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Here’s the rewritten description: This painting shows a chubby baby Jupiter being fed by a goat.

Here’s the rewritten description:

This painting shows a chubby baby Jupiter being fed by a goat. The goat stands on a rock while Jupiter holds its udder. A woman in a plain dress watches nearby.

Jordaens often painted big, lively scenes like this one. The colors feel warm and rich, with lots of reds and golds. The baby’s pose looks playful, not serious.

The goat’s fur is painted thickly, almost like paste. Look for that rough texture.

Door: artist Jacob Jordaens (Flemish, 1593–1678)

Overview

Jupiter Nourished by the Goat Almathea is a print designed by Jacob Jordaens, a Flemish artist active in the 17th century.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts a scene from classical mythology, showing the infant Jupiter being nourished by the goat Amalthea, watched over by a nearby woman.

Technique & Style

Characterized by warm, rich colors and thick, textured brushstrokes, particularly in the rendering of the goat's fur, the work exemplifies Jordaens' lively and expressive style.

History & Provenance

Created in 1652, Jupiter Nourished by the Goat Almathea is a product of Jordaens' mature period, following the deaths of Rubens and Anthony van Dyck, after which he became a leading figure in Flemish Baroque art.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jacob Jordaens

Artist

Jacob Jordaens

Jacques (Jacob) Jordaens (19 May 1593 – 18 October 1678) was a Flemish painter, draughtsman and a designer of tapestries and prints.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.