(Paris 1713–1789)
Io and Jupiter,
oil on canvas, 115 x 124 cm, framed

We are grateful to Nicolas Lesur for confirming the attribution of the present painting on the basis of a photograph.

The present painting relates to another work by the artist with the same subject, but inverted (see N. Lesur, A. Aaron, Jean-Baptist Marie Pierre. Premier peintre du roi, Paris 2009, no. P. 116). Following Ovid’s Metamorphosis, the nymph Io is seduced, in other accounts of the story, raped, by Jupiter disguised as a dark cloud. Deviating from the myth, as element of the artist’s freedom, another attribute for Jupiter, the eagle, appears at the lower right edge of the painting. The lovers are shown in an intimate embrace, with Io’s arm around Jupiter as she sensually pulls the smoky cloud towards herself, creating a powerful sense of passion and desire.

Io is shown in three-quarter-view, illuminated by a light source coming from the right. Her slightly twisted body, reminiscent of ancient sculpture, is embedded on a draped cloth and softly embraced by the dark cloud. The composition is sensual, decorative and delicate and corresponds to the preferred French taste in the mid-18th century Rococo painting.

Jean Baptiste Marie Pierre was a member of the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture from 1744. He held the prestigious position of Premier Peintre du Roi (First Painter to the King) from 1770 until the French Revolution in 1789. Pierre’s works, such as the present painting, drew inspiration from classical mythology.