Joseph Lonsing (1739-1799), Meleager and Atalanta (The Calydonian Boar Hunt)

Joseph Lonsing (1739-1799)
Meleager and Atalanta
(The Calydonian Boar Hunt)

engraving, 64,2 x 42,5 cm

after the frescoes by Gulio Romano, printed in Rome 1772. The myth tells that the lands of Calidone were infested by a terrible and huge boar, sent by Artemis offended because she had not been honored after an abundant harvest. The huge animal terrorized the region and no one was able to kill it. Then the King asked all the bravest warriors to try their hand at the enterprise, and among them arrived the beautiful and valiant Atalanta with whom Meleager, although already married, fell in love. Together they managed to kill the boar at the end of a hunt, first her with an arrow from her and then with a spear blow to his heart.

Fresh proof with large margins, in good general condition.