Juno on Her Chariot Visiting a Young Woman and a Rivergod 1675 - 1735

Richard van Orley made this pen and wash drawing called 'Juno on Her Chariot Visiting a Young Woman and a Rivergod' in the late 17th or early 18th century. Van Orley was from Brussels, which at that time was part of the Spanish Netherlands, a region steeped in both classical and Christian traditions. This drawing depicts a scene from classical mythology, where Juno, queen of the gods, visits a mortal woman and a river god. The imagery draws heavily on classical sources, but it's also typical of the Baroque style popular in the Netherlands at the time, which was known for its dramatic compositions and ornate details. This work likely reflects the cultural and political climate of the Spanish Netherlands, where classical learning was valued, and where the Catholic Church was a major patron of the arts. The drawing also reflects the artist's skill in depicting complex narratives and allegorical figures. Further research into the artist's patrons and the cultural institutions of Brussels might reveal the precise circumstances that led to its creation.