Jupiter Appearing to Semele 1501 - 1547

"Jupiter Appearing to Semele" is a pen and brown ink drawing by Italian artist Perino del Vaga, executed between 1501 and 1547. The drawing, housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, depicts the dramatic moment when Jupiter, disguised as a mortal, reveals his true identity to Semele, a mortal woman with whom he has fallen in love. Perino's masterful use of line and shading brings the scene to life, emphasizing the emotional turmoil of the moment. The drawing is a prime example of the artist's skillful draftsmanship and knowledge of classical mythology, reflecting the High Renaissance style of the era.