The Abduction of Ganymede by Zeus

August 5, 2023 – A mixed-media piece that uses watercolor and ink. The objective was to practice figure drawing and facial proportions.

I made this sketchbook spread with an interest in Greek mythology and the realistic style that they were painted in. I had finished the right page of the spread first but disliked Ganymedes face so I then did a close-up version on the left page.

Research about this piece of artwork:

  • The original painting was made by Eustache Le Sueur in 1644
  • The painting shows the taking of the Trojan prince Ganymede by an eagle; the eagle was possibly a transformed Zeus.
  • Ganymede would be taken from Troy to Mount Olympus, where the Trojan prince would become a lover of Zeus and the cupbearer of the gods.