Apollo And Daphne 

Apollo and Daphne was rendered in oil on canvas, sometime between 1650 and 1700, by the Italian artist Luca Giordano. Giordano's work here reflects the influence of Venetian painting, especially in his skilled manipulation of oil paint. Note the fluid brushwork, almost dissolving form in light and atmosphere. But what's also interesting is how painting in oils, though a traditional medium, was also a relatively recent technology at this time. Painters like Giordano were eager to demonstrate its potential, its capacity for realism and drama. The artist’s technique is very much on display, calling attention to his virtuosity and skill. There’s a real sense of performance here, of the artist showing us how well he can handle this relatively new material, and the many visual effects that could be produced. This ties into the role of art in the wider social context of the time. Art was seen as a commodity, and artists were competing for patrons and commissions. By understanding the materials and processes involved in creating paintings like this, we gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural and social context in which they were made.