Ixion embracing a cloud, thinking it is Juno, Cupid at the right, set within an elaborate frame, from "Loves, Rages and Jealousies of Juno"
1531–76
Medium
Engraving
Dimensions
sheet: 5 5/16 x 4 1/8 in. (13.5 x 10.5 cm)
Classification
Prints
Department
Drawings and Prints
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
The Elisha Whittelsey Collection, The Elisha Whittelsey Fund, 1949
Accession Number
49.97.278
Tags
Art Historical Context
In this intricate engraving titled *Ixion Embracing a Cloud, Thinking It Is, Cupid at the Right Set Within an Elabor Frame*, from the series *Loves,ages and Jealousies Juno*, Giulio Bonasone a dramatic moment from classical mythology. Ixion, king of the Lapiths, lusts after Juno (the Roman Hera), wife of Jupiter. Deceived by a cloud shaped like the goddess—crafted by Jupiter as punishment—Ixion embraces the illusion, with mischievous Cupid hovering nearby. This tale of desire, trickery, and divine retribution reflects Renaissance fascination with ancient myths, often drawn from Ovid's *Metamor...
About the Artist
Giulio Bonasone · 1500–1600
Comment on works: History; Mythology