Who painted Arion on a Dolphin?

Arion on a Dolphin was painted by Jan Muller in 1590.

Where can I see Arion on a Dolphin?

Arion on a Dolphin is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Arion on a Dolphin?

Arion on a Dolphin is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of Arion on a Dolphin?

Museum-quality prints of Arion on a Dolphin are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Arion on a Dolphin

Jan Muller , 1590

Arion on a Dolphin is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Jan Muller. It dates from 1590 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Jan Harmensz.

Inscription: Inscribed:below image: Quisnam igitur liber? Sapiens, sibi qui imperiosus / Quem neque pauperies, neque mors neque vincula terrent: / Responsare cupidinibus, contemnere honores / Fortis, et in seipso totus teres atque rotundus; below image, at centre: Dueghd Verhueght; below image, at right: C. Cornelij Harlemen inuen. / Harman Mullerus excud. / Amsterodamj

About this work

Overview

Jan Harmensz. Muller, a Dutch engraver active in the late sixteenth century, produced the print Arion on a Dolphin circa 1590. Executed on laid paper, the image presents a classical scene in which the musician Aragon, known from Greek legend, rides a dolphin amid turbulent sea.

Subject & Meaning

The composition illustrates the myth of Arion, a famed singer rescued by dolphins after a shipwreck. In the engraving, Arion is shown in a flowing robe, clutching his lyre and looking back, while surrounding dolphins leap, suggesting both protection and the continuation of his music across the waves.

Technique & Style

Muller employs fine cross‑hatching to render the churning water, creating a sense of depth and light on the sea’s surface. The delicate lines on the laid paper convey texture in both the marine environment and the figure’s drapery, characteristic of Dutch printmaking of the period.

History & Provenance

Born in Amsterdam in 1571, Muller learned engraving within his family’s publishing house before traveling to Italy, where he refined his skills. After returning, he inherited the family business and continued working there until his death in 1628. The print is now held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Jan Muller

Jan Harmensz. Muller (1571–1628) was a Dutch engraver and painter. Muller was born in Amsterdam. His father was a book printer, engraver and publisher. He learned the engraving trade while working in the family…