1820, Antoine-Jean Gros, Bacchus and Ariadne -- Phoenix Art Museum
From the museum label:
One can't pass this painting by Antoine-Jean Gros without noting the expressions on the faces of its subjects. The man, so vibrantly attired, has eyes only for the maiden. She, however, gazes at us with an expression that requires closer observation. Do you see the tear on her cheek? Yet, she appears at ease; coquettish even as she leans against the man.
Bacchus, the god of wine, came to cherish and eventually marry his beloved Ariadne. While he was immortal, she was not. But after her death, Bacchus took the diadem (crown of stars) seen in her left hand and flung it into the night sky creating the constellation of Ariadne so she remains eternal.
1820, Antoine-Jean Gros, Bacchus and Ariadne -- Phoenix Art Museum
From the museum label:
One can't pass this painting by Antoine-Jean Gros without noting the expressions on the faces of its subjects. The man, so vibrantly attired, has eyes only for the maiden. She, however, gazes at us with an expression that requires closer observation. Do you see the tear on her cheek? Yet, she appears at ease; coquettish even as she leans against the man.
Bacchus, the god of wine, came to cherish and eventually marry his beloved Ariadne. While he was immortal, she was not. But after her death, Bacchus took the diadem (crown of stars) seen in her left hand and flung it into the night sky creating the constellation of Ariadne so she remains eternal.