Spandrel with Rape of Orytheia Flanked by Hercules and Omphale n.d.

This pen and wash drawing by Ciro Ferri, a prominent Baroque artist, depicts a scene from Greek mythology. The central oval features the Rape of Orytheia, a nymph, by the wind god Boreas, while two figures, likely Hercules and Omphale, frame the scene. The drawing's details, such as the dynamic poses and elaborate ornamentation, are characteristic of Ferri's style and demonstrate his mastery of draftsmanship. This study, likely intended for a larger work, showcases the artist's creative process and his ability to capture both movement and emotion in his drawings. The work is currently housed in the collection of The Art Institute of Chicago.