The Sleeping Rinaldo Crowned with Flowers by Armida (formerly entitled Sleeping Mars) 1750 - 1780

Francesco Zugno’s *The Sleeping Rinaldo Crowned with Flowers by Armida* (1750-1780) is a captivating Rococo-style painting that depicts the story of the knight Rinaldo, a character from the epic poem "Jerusalem Delivered" by Torquato Tasso. The painting showcases the moment when Rinaldo, asleep, is being adorned with a crown of flowers by the sorceress Armida. The scene is filled with delicate details, with a cherub gracefully hovering above the sleeping hero and a female figure gazing at the scene with adoration. Zugno's mastery of light and shadow creates a dreamy atmosphere that complements the seductive nature of the subject matter, making the painting a captivating example of Rococo art.