Achilles consoled by his mother, Thetis 1757

Giovanni Battista Tiepolo’s 1757 painting, “Achilles Consoled by His Mother, Thetis,” depicts the Greek hero Achilles, seated in a contemplative pose, while his mother, the sea nymph Thetis, comforts him from the waves below. This scene from Homer’s Iliad showcases Tiepolo’s mastery of Rococo style, with its characteristic light palette and flowing lines. The painting's dramatic composition and use of light and shadow create a sense of both grandeur and intimacy, capturing the emotional depth of the scene. The mythological subject matter and elegant execution made this work a favorite among art lovers in the 18th century and continues to inspire awe and admiration today.