VAN LOO, attribuito a

CHARLES ANDRÉ VAN LOO, attributed to ARTEMISIA PURSUED BY ALPHEUS CHARLES ANDRÉ VAN LOO, attributed to Nice 1705 – Paris 1765 Oil on canvas, original Rococo frame 34.5 x 41 cm / 22.2 x 17.5 inches; with frame 46.5 x 53 cm / 28.7 x 24.8 inches PROVENANCE Munich, private collection The subject of the painting had been mistakenly identified by the previous owner as "Pan and Syrinx". However, it is actually Artemis and Alpheus. Artemis is recognized by the symbol of the moon on her head, the bow she holds in her hand, and the quiver full of arrows on her back. The myth of Artemis and Alpheus tells the story of the river god Alpheus, who was in love with the huntress goddess Artemis (Diana to the Romans). Alpheus tried to pursue her to win her over, but Artemis, determined to reject his advances, resorted to a ruse. She and her nymphs smeared their faces with mud, becoming unrecognizable, which allowed them to escape Alpheus and preserve their independence.