Plate 139: The Apulian Shepherd Changed into an Olive Tree (Apulus pastor in oleastrum transit), from Ovid's 'Metamorphoses' 1606

Antonio Tempesta's "Plate 139: The Apulian Shepherd Changed into an Olive Tree (Apulus pastor in oleastrum transit), from Ovid's 'Metamorphoses'" (1606) depicts a scene from the Roman poet Ovid's epic *Metamorphoses*. The shepherd, who is the focus of the print, is surrounded by dancing nymphs and has already been transformed into an olive tree. The scene is depicted in a naturalistic style, and the use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and realism. The print is one of many created by Tempesta for an illustrated edition of Ovid's work, and it's a great example of how artists used their skill to help bring literature to life.