Lot 1244 Dα

Landscape painting began to gain status as an independent genre in Bologna in the early 17th century. Annibale Carracci, founder of the Accademia degli Incamminati and the Bolognese school of the 17th century, was a pioneer of this genre. His pupils, such as Domenichino (1581-1641), who were directly influenced by his works, developed the concept of the idealised landscape further in their own unique styles.
The present work is an early example of the classical landscape, in which a mythological scene provides a fine pretence for the opulent landscape background. The artist has carefully arranged various natural elements to create an idealised, idyllic scene.