Leda and the Swan by Stephanie Smith
The story of Leda and Zeus (or Jupiter) was very popular in ancient Greece.
Zeus managed to seduce the lady Leda while he was taking the form of a swan which came to her in search of aid. As Wikipedia says: “Their consummation, on the same night as Leda lay with her husband Tyndareus, resulted in two eggs from which hatched Helen, Clytemnestra, and Castor and Pollux,” all of whom grew up to become legendary figures in their own right.
Images of their consummation were very popular decorations on ancient Greek stoneware….
This image is one of many story images of birds and animals featured in my calendar Legendary Tales: Myths and Legends
Ink drawing with digital color, 2005
Comments
Very beautiful art work!
Gorgeous work x
A stunning interpretation… Moreau would be proud. Your ink work is beyond compare. Nicely done!
Thank you so much, such a comparison makes me blush. :)
neat! i’ve always liked this story for some reason … have you seen the Klimt painting of Leda ?
I don’t think I have… I can just imagine his take on it tho!
There’s surprisingly little source material for this story, for all that’s been written (and drawn, and sculpted, etc) — it was one of those that was so common no one bothered writing it down for ages and ages… in Metamorposes it was only mentioned in passing, but it is SO compelling I couldn’t help but draw it!
– Stephanie Smith
I love all the swan maiden tales, Celtic, Greek, Norse. Beautiful representation!!!!!
There’s something about swans, isn’t there? Thanks, MoonSpiral!
– Stephanie Smith
Congratulations! You’ve been featured in the Finks of Ink!
Thanks Luke! I’m very honored!
– Stephanie Smith
There is an essence of sacred legend in this! Especially love the gentle spread and fall of the swan’s wings!
Thank you so much Gemma! I love ancient legends… if you couldn’t tell! :)
– Stephanie Smith
Beautiful works…