The Golden Fleece 1904

Herbert James Draper's "The Golden Fleece" (1904) is a dramatic painting depicting the Greek myth of Jason and the Argonauts. The scene shows the crew of the ship Argo struggling to hold onto the golden fleece, a prized possession guarded by a fearsome dragon. The composition is dynamic, with figures in various poses and gestures, creating a sense of excitement and urgency. Draper's use of light and shadow helps to accentuate the drama and emotional intensity of the moment, making it a captivating work of art. This painting was popular during its time and helped define the genre of "classical mythology paintings" that remained popular for much of the 20th century.