Perseus & Andromeda | Frederic Leighton | 1891 19th Century riding a dark horse

riding a dark horse

Through restrained composition and masterful chiaroscuro

Illuminated by the soft glow of a single candle

hushed interior

A shift in the wind direction prevented many of their ships from being wrecked on the surrounding shoals

Perseus & Andromeda | Frederic Leighton | 1891 19th Century riding a dark horseThe mythological theme of Andromeda is depicted in a dramatic manner. The scene is a representation of the myth set on a rocky shore. Perseus is depicted flying above the head of Andromeda, on his winged horse Pegasus. He is shooting an arrow from the air, that hits the sea monster, who turns his head upwards, towards the hero. Andromeda's almost naked, twisted body is shaded by the wings of the dark creature, creating a visual sign of imminent