Artwork
Meleager and Atalanta
Meleager and Atalanta is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Richard Wilson. It dates from 1770 and is held in the collection of the Tate.
About this work
Overview
Meleager and Atalanta is a 1770 oil painting by Richard Wilson, a foundational figure in British art known for his landscapes and occasional mythological subjects.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a dramatic scene from mythology, featuring the figures of Meleager and Atalanta amidst a group in various poses before a rocky cliff and waterfall, conveying intense energy and movement.
Technique & Style
Executed in muted earth tones, the work showcases visible brushstrokes, a textured appearance, and the effective use of chiaroscuro to create depth and volumetric form, characteristic of Wilson's adaptation of Rococo elements.
History & Provenance
Created in 1770, the painting is now part of the collection at Tate Britain, reflecting Wilson's contribution to broader artistic themes beyond his renowned landscapes.
Context
While Wilson is celebrated for elevating landscape painting in Britain, Meleager and Atalanta exemplifies his less frequent engagement with mythological themes, blending Rococo sensibilities with his own stylistic approach.
Legacy
As one of Wilson's mythological works, it contributes to the diverse artistic output of a painter primarily recognized for his role in establishing landscape as a major genre in 18th-century British art.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Richard Wilson (1 August 1714 – 15 May 1782) was a Welsh painter who specialised in landscape art and worked in Britain and Italy.
