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Helle, Phrixus and the flying golden ram
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Helle, Phrixus and the flying golden ram
Helle reaching for her brother Phrixus on his flying golden ram trying after falling off into Hellespont (now the Dardanelles). Dolphins caper alongside. Copperplate engraving by Tommaso Piroli from his Antiquities of Herculaneum (Antichita di Ercolano), Rome, 1789
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Media ID 23151800
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Antichità Antiquities Dardanelles Dolphin Ercolano Fleece Fresco Herculaneum Mythology Piroli Pompeii Tommaso Helle Hellespont
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This copperplate engraving by Tommaso Piroli, titled "Helle, Phrixus, and the Flying Golden Ram," is an exquisite depiction of a legendary moment from Greek mythology. The image portrays Helle, a daughter of King Athamas and Ino, reaching out to her brother Phrixus as he clings to the back of the mythical flying golden ram. The siblings are shown in mid-air, having fallen off the ram during their daring escape from their stepmother's wrath. The scene unfolds over the Hellespont, which is now known as the Dardanelles, with the shimmering waters teeming with playful dolphins. The brothers were sent on this perilous journey by the goddess Hera, who had taken pity on them and promised to protect them. The golden ram, a gift from the god Phrixus's father, was instructed to carry them safely to the land of Colchis. The engraving, taken from Tommaso Piroli's "Antiquities of Herculaneum" (Antichità di Ercolano), published in Rome in 1789, is a stunning example of the classical art and painting that flourished during the 18th century. The intricate details and vibrant colors bring the mythological tale to life, transporting viewers to a time when gods and heroes roamed the earth.
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