Alpheus and Arethusa 1770 - 1780

This print, "Alpheus and Arethusa," was created by Jacopo Guarana, who lived from 1720 to 1808. It is composed of sinuous lines that create a dynamic, ethereal scene dominated by classical figures and billowing clouds. The monochrome palette enhances the sense of depth and drama. Guarana uses line and form to convey movement and emotion. The figures are arranged in a diagonal composition, with Alpheus lunging forward, his form contrasting with the upward gesture of Arethusa, who is being carried away. This opposition creates a visual tension, reflecting the narrative of pursuit and escape. The swirling clouds, rendered with delicate etching, serve not only as a backdrop but also as a structural element that guides the viewer's eye through the scene. The careful arrangement of figures and the use of light and shadow to model their bodies, contribute to the overall sense of theatricality, which was a key aspect of the artistic and intellectual climate of the time. Through the composition and the detailed rendering of forms, Guarana invites us to consider the relationship between desire, transformation, and the power of myth.