Alpheus and Arethusa 1770 - 1780

"Alpheus and Arethusa," a print created between 1770 and 1780 by Italian artist Jacopo Guarana, depicts a scene from Greek mythology. The print shows the nymph Arethusa, pursued by the river god Alpheus, who is trying to capture her. Arethusa has been transformed into a spring by the goddess Diana, and the scene suggests the moment of this transformation. This dramatic scene is rendered in delicate detail, with the figures appearing to float and move in the air, capturing the sense of myth and magic. The Italian text at the bottom adds to the narrative and enhances the artwork's appeal.