Orpheus charming the beasts — Paulus Potter

Paulus Potter. Painted 1650.

The Classical poet Ovid described how Orpheus en-chanted nature with his wonderful lyre music. This theme was popular among 17th-century animal painters because it gave them a chance to depict many different sorts of animals. Here Potter demonstrates that his repertoire encompassed more than the usual farm animals. He painted dozens of native and exotic beasts. In the middle Orpheus is strumming his harp.

From the collection of the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Currently on display in 17th Century, Main building, Painting.

canvas, oil paint (paint) · Original size: 89 × 67 cm

Print: 89 × 67 cm, printed on Hahnemühle FineArt archival cotton paper. Museum-grade reproduction quality, true to the colours and detail of the original work.

Frame (optional): a custom-made wooden frame in a matte black finish, cut to the exact dimensions of this print, with an off-white passe-partout mat and protective glazing. Ready to hang.

Source: https://id.rijksmuseum.nl/200107888. Image released under CC0 by the Rijksmuseum.