Mythology, Animals, Jupiter, Zeus, Leda, Swan
Mythology - Leda and the swan
"Jupiter and Leda"
Copper (stipple in most part) etching by Francesco Bartolozzi (1728-1815) figures
and Benjamin Charles Comte (landscape).
After the painting by F. Viera
Printed by McQueen. London, 1814
This is, in brief, the Greek mythological story: Jupiter fell in love with Leda, pretty young daughter of Zhestios and Eurythemis. He approached her disguised as a swan and, lo and behold, impregnated her. But Leda's husband, Tyndareos, mated with her in the same night. As a consequence Leda laid two eggs, two from Jupiter and two from Tyndareos. Jupiter's offspring was immortal, the other two were human, i.e. mortal.
This is the most recited mythological story. There are, however, variations told as well.
Leda and the Swan has inspired many artists. This is a lovely rendering, we find!
Image is in good condition. The margins show traces of age and use. They are a bit soiled and show, in upper and lower margins, some little repaired tears.
47,5 x 58,5 cm (ca. 18.7 x 23")