“The Raising of Ganymede” is an exquisite watercolor painting created in 1886 by esteemed artist Gustave Moreau. It falls under the Symbolism movement and represents a mythological painting. The artwork belongs to a private collection.
In the artwork, viewers are transported to a mystical realm where the mythological narrative of the abduction of Ganymede by Zeus, transformed into an eagle, is depicted. Central to the composition, a resplendent eagle with an aureole around its head, symbolizing Zeus, ascends majestically carrying Ganymede, whose form exudes ethereal beauty and vulnerability. Ganymede’s outstretched arm and flowing drapery accentuate the dynamic movement upwards. The background, rich with foliage and mysterious shadows, complements the scene’s divine and enchanting ambiance. The palette is dominated by intense, yet harmonious hues, which further enhance the painting’s dreamlike quality. Additionally, a forlorn canine figure at the bottom left corner emphasizes the dramatic separation and adds to the narrative depth of the artwork.
