The Despair of Cephalus c. 1520 - 1522

"The Despair of Cephalus," a fresco painted by Bernardino Luini around 1520-1522, depicts the tragic tale of Cephalus, who is tricked into killing his wife Procris. In this scene, Luini shows Cephalus's anguish and the pain of his realization. The artist uses a soft, luminous palette and gentle, yet expressive, brushstrokes to convey the dramatic story. The setting, a verdant landscape bathed in warm light, creates a sense of both beauty and melancholy, reflecting the conflicting emotions of the scene. This work exemplifies Luini's mastery of Renaissance figurative painting, showcasing his ability to capture the human condition with both empathy and technical skill.