An artwork on Galleree from Minneapolis Institute of Art.
About the artwork
Diana the Huntressc. 1690
Artist: Giovanni Battista Gaulli (Baciccio)
Italian, 1639-1709
Mythology: Diana the Huntress. Artemis.
62 1/2 x 83 1/4 in. (158.75 x 211.46 cm) (canvas)
Oil on canvas
Painting
Italy
17th-18th century
The Frances E. Andrews Fund
In a tranquil forest bathed in dappled sunlight, where the whispers of nature weave a rich tapestry, we find the mythological figure of Diana, the goddess of the hunt. She reclines gracefully among the soft ferns and gentle sways of leaves, her hunting dogs by her side—Syrius and Phocion. The serene atmosphere is punctuated by the distant excitement of a hunt unfolding in the middle ground, where the thrill of pursuit dances quietly in the air.
Diana, known as Artemis in her Greek form, embodies the spirit of the wild—an elusive figure, revered for her independence, strength, and the sacred connection she maintains with the creatures of the forest. She is the guardian of wild animals, forests, and hills, inspiring respect and reverence from those who tread upon her realm.
The story of this mesmerizing artwork takes us back to around 1690, when it was commissioned by Cardinal Pietro Ottoboni. A significant figure in the world of art, the Cardinal was not just any noble; he was the powerful nephew of Pope Alexander VIII, and throughout several decades, his patronage helped to illuminate the art scene in Rome. His influence stretched wide, nurturing the talents of many aspiring artists and bringing to life works that ignited the imaginations of many.
In the heart of this painting, we encounter not just a goddess, but also the deep bonds of love and loyalty, for both of Diana’s dogs are based on the Cardinal’s own beloved pets. Syrius, a loyal companion, sports the heraldic device of the Ottoboni family on his collar, a symbol of his noble lineage. The scene is set amidst the breathtaking Alban hills, an area nestled around sixty miles from the bustling hub of Rome, where the land undulates softly under the embrace of the sky.
Through this artwork, we are invited on a journey—a glimpse into the harmonious coexistence of nature and divinity, as heralds of the old myths intertwine with the vibrant life of the Cardinal’s world, forever captured in the serene embrace of the forest.
About the artist
Inspiring wonder through the power of art. The Minneapolis Institute of Art enriches the community by collecting, preserving, and making accessible outstanding works of art from the world’s diverse cultures.
The artworks shared on this platform are sourced from the museum's Open Access data under the CC0 license. No endorsement is implied.
Address: 2400 Third Avenue South Minneapolis, Minnesota 55404
The best place to view Minneapolis Institute of Art‘s artwork is on Galleree. Hear the story behind this work, interact with the image, discuss with people, curate your own playlists, and discover so much more from great artists and institutions alike.