Who painted Juno and Argus?

Juno and Argus was painted by Richard van Orley in 1707.

Where can I see Juno and Argus?

Juno and Argus is held by Nationalmuseum.

Artwork

Juno and Argus

Juno and Argus is an unspecified painting by Richard van Orley. It dates from 1707 and is held in the collection of the Nationalmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Created circa 1707, *Juno and Argus* is an oil painting by the Brussels‑based Flemish artist Richard van Orley. The work portrays the Roman goddess Juno amid a tranquil woodland setting, surrounded by figures in pastel and blue garments. It is part of the Nationalmuseum’s collection, offering a glimpse into early‑18th‑century mythological painting in the Southern Netherlands.

Subject & Meaning

The composition draws on the classical tale of Juno and the hundred‑eyed giant Argus, a story from Ovid’s *Metamorphoses* that explores themes of vigilance and divine jealousy. In the painting, Juno appears central and serene, her red robe contrasting with the softer hues of the surrounding figures, suggesting her authority while the natural backdrop underscores the myth’s pastoral dimension.

Technique & Style

Van Orley employs a balanced palette of reds, blues and pinks, arranging the figures to lead the eye toward the goddess. Subtle chiaroscuro models the forms, giving the foliage and drapery a three‑dimensional presence. The brushwork is smooth, typical of Flemish academic practice of the period, and the composition reflects a harmonious integration of figure and landscape.

History & Provenance

Richard van Orley, known primarily for his engravings, produced this canvas during the later phase of his career, when he turned more frequently to large‑scale painted narratives. The painting entered the Nationalmuseum’s holdings in the 20th century, though the exact acquisition path remains undocumented, reflecting the broader movement of Flemish works into Swedish public collections.