Leda en de zwaan 1771 - 1776

Valentine Green’s “Leda en de zwaan” (1771-1776) is a mezzotint depicting the Greek myth of Leda and the swan. The image portrays Leda, a Spartan queen, as she is seduced by Zeus, the king of the gods, who has taken the form of a swan. The print is a testament to Green's mastery of mezzotint, a technique that uses tonal variation to create a sense of depth and realism. Green's use of light and shadow is particularly striking, creating a sense of drama and sensuality. The composition is also masterful, with Leda’s pose drawing the viewer’s eye to the central figure, while the swan and the surrounding foliage create a sense of intimacy and mystery. The artwork is a valuable example of the 18th-century fascination with classical mythology.