signed by Anton Maria Mitelli (active Italy, 18th century)
Europa and the Bull, 18th century
Pen and wash on paper, 20 x 28.8 cm (7 7/8 x 11 5/16 in.)
This horizontal pen and wash painting shows Europa being kidnapped by the bull. The figures of Europa and the bull fill much of the paper, with a faint horizon line visible in the background. The bull is facing to our left, with legs crouched in forward movement. Soft brushstrokes delineate the fur on his face and body. His eyes gaze forward and his tail swings straight behind. Europa is on the bull’s back, desperately holding onto a horn with her right hand. Her body is stretched back with legs spread open and her left arm up, waving a scarf over her head. Her dress is partially open, revealing her left breast and her navel, then tucks in between her open legs and falls over the bull’s body. Her face is that of a young woman, with long hair blowing back. The artist’s signature is present at the lower right corner.
Long Gallery
Commentary
Isabella Stewart Gardner kept meticulous records of many of her acquisitions. In keeping with this legacy, object information is continually being reviewed, updated, and enriched in order to give greater access to the collection.