Cephalus and Procris c. 1595 - 1600

Joachim Wtewael's "Cephalus and Procris" (c. 1595-1600) depicts a dramatic scene from Greek mythology. The painting features Cephalus, a hunter, embracing Procris, his wife, who is shown with an expression of fear and distress. The dramatic use of light and shadow creates a sense of tension and suspense, while the rich colors and detailed rendering of the figures contribute to the overall sense of realism. This work exemplifies Wtewael's mastery of the Mannerist style, characterized by elongated figures, intricate compositions, and a focus on emotional expression.