"Triumph of Galatea" By Raphael

Picture: Villa Farnesina Website.

Villa Farnesina in Rome was a vivid experience of the mythological illustrations throughout the 1500’s.“The Triumph of Galatea” created by Raphael in 1511-1512. This piece of artwork was created with a peculiar technique of fresco on plaster. The entire wall is engulfed by a mural of great proportions with elements that enrich the theme. The size of the painting is approximately 290 inches by 220 inches. The myth connected with this fresco was the story revolves around Polyphemus, the cyclops son of Poseidon, who was in love with the beautiful Nereid Galatea. Nereid Galatea fell in love with the peasant Aces and Polyphemus killed Aces out of jealousy by crushing him with a huge rock. After Aces untimely death Galatea transformed Aces into a river. Another part of the myth describes how Polyphemos would sit on a cliff and play songs out of pipes while Galatea would listen and enjoy them. In the main painting the Nymph, Galatea, is riding a chariot pulled by two grotesque dolphins. She seems to be enjoying the moment and the sound of the Cyclops playing his instrument. There are three cherubins, or cupids, with bow and arrows attempting to shoot the beautiful Nymph. Perhaps the multiple Cupids are the representation of the Cyclops’ love trying to bring down it’s quarry. The Nymph seems to be riding with great alacrity, so much so  that the wind is blowing and pulling her hair to the side.

Monica Salazar