ZUCCARELLI, Francesco
(b. 1702, Pitigliano, d. 1788, Firenze)

The Rape of Europa

1740-50
Oil on canvas, 142 x 208 cm
Gallerie dell'Accademia, Venice

Much loved by collectors, Zuccarelli specialized in painting luminous Arcadian landscapes. His Tuscan origins are suggested by the clarity and rationality of his compositions. The figures, drawn from classical myths, enhance the refined aristocratic quality of his paintings. The Rape of Europa has always been considered one of Zuccarelli's masterpieces.