Orpheus and the Beasts

The subject of this painting was very popular with collectors because of its musical references. The subject of Orpheus also gave the artists, who were generally from across the Alps, the opportunity to paint animals crowded around the mythical singer.

You can view other depictions of Orpheus taming the animals.

Suggested listening (streaming mp3, 7 minutes): Cristoph Willibald Gluck: Orfeo, Act I, Orpheus' aria in G Major