Orpheus among the animals

Orpheus among the animals

Gillis d'Hondecoeter

1616

oil

From the collection of National Museum in Warsaw

About this work

This painting shows a forest scene with many animals. In the center, a man plays a lyre, and animals surround him. There are birds, deer, and even a lion. The trees are tall and green, and the sky is cloudy. The man playing the lyre is Orpheus, a figure from ancient myths. He's known for his music, which can charm animals. This painting shows that idea, with animals gathered around him. Look up Gillis d'Hondecoeter for more of his work.

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