Neptune apaisant les flots 1849 - 1852

Eugène Delacroix made this oil on canvas painting of Neptune in the 19th century, a time when European artists were fascinated by classical mythology and its potential to represent power. In this piece, Neptune's masculinity isn't just about physical strength; it's about his capacity to command and control the natural world. The waves and tempestuous skies behind him suggest that his potency is intrinsically linked to his dominion over the sea and his management of the sea's inherent dangers. Neptune himself is reclining, which could reflect the period's exploration of leisure and power. His relaxed pose implies a sense of inherent authority, as though his command doesn't require him to stand tall. Ultimately, this portrayal of Neptune invites us to reflect on how society perceives and embodies power.