Cephalus and Procris

"Cephalus and Procris" is a painting attributed to the Dutch artist Godfried Schalcken, created in the 1680s. The work depicts a scene from Ovid's "Metamorphoses," illustrating the tragic love story of Cephalus and Procris. Cephalus, a skilled hunter, is shown with Procris, who is often portrayed as a symbol of fidelity and love. The painting is characterized by Schalcken's mastery of chiaroscuro and his ability to capture the play of light on skin and fabric. The emotional tension between the figures reflects themes of love, jealousy, and betrayal. The exact provenance of the painting is not well-documented, and its current location is unknown. Schalcken's works are noted for their intimate scale and detailed realism, which were highly regarded in the Dutch Golden Age.

"Cephalus and Procris" by Godfried Schalcken, created in the 1680s, is an oil on canvas painting that depicts a moment of intimacy between the two mythological figures, Cephalus and Procris. The composition is characterized by a soft, warm palette, with rich browns, golds, and muted greens that create a sense of warmth and tenderness. Schalcken employs chiaroscuro to enhance the three-dimensionality of the figures, highlighting their expressions and gestures. Cephalus is shown in a relaxed pose, while Procris appears to be reaching out, conveying a sense of longing and connection. The background features a softly rendered landscape, contributing to the overall serene atmosphere of the scene. The delicate handling of light and texture in the figures' clothing and skin adds to the painting's sensual quality. The work exemplifies Schalcken's mastery of light and shadow, as well as his ability to evoke emotional depth through subtle details.