Polyphemus

The one-eyed Cyclops Polyphemus (Greek Polyphemos = Roman Polyphemu), the son of Poseidon and the nymph Thoosa, was passionately in love with the sea nymph Galatea (Greek »white-skinned«), one of the most beautiful Nereids. But Galatea did not care for him, she fell in love with a young and handsome shepherd of Sicily Acis. Once Polyphemus saw them together hugging so he, out of jealousy, crushed Acis to pieces with a large rock. The painter depicted the giant Polyphemus sitting on a high rock, standing above the heavy sea, the right bottom of the painting indicates cave entrance with part of Polyphemus‘ flock. Polyphemus is playing the pipe, the music of which helps him heal pain caused by unrequited love.
Allegory of an element Water, The Knight's Hall, Brežice Castle, Frančišek Karel Remb (1675–1718), early 18th century.