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The Metamorphosis of Cyane

Frans Floris

National Museums Liverpool

National Museums Liverpool
United Kingdom

This drawing was previously thought to show a penitent Mary Magdalene, but it in fact depicts the nymph Cyane, who changes into water. This event is described in the 'Metamorphoses' by the Roman poet Ovid.

Cyane tired to prevent the kidnap of Proserpine by the god of the underworld, Pluto. Having failed to prevent the abduction, Cyane was overcome with grief and began to dissolve into tears. Floris focuses on the single figure of Cyane as she transforms. Her trailing hair melts into the stream's rivulets and the mood of grief is enhanced by the blue tones.

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  • Title: The Metamorphosis of Cyane
  • Creator: Frans Floris I
  • Creator Lifespan: 1519/20 - 1570
  • Physical Dimensions: 27.7 x 19 cm
  • Rights: Purchased from the Trustees of the Weld Heirlooms Settlement with the assistance of the National Heritage Memorial Fund, the Art Fund, Sir Denis Mahon and British Nuclear Fuels in 1995
  • Medium: Pen; Brown ink; Blue wash; Heightened with white
National Museums Liverpool

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