Phrine seduces Xenocrates

Phryne Seduces Xenocrates from 1794 depicts the legendary contest in which the Athenian courtesan attempted to seduce the Stoic philosopher, who famously resisted. Kauffmann’s treatment of this morally charged classical anecdote characteristically emphasizes the intellectual and emotional dimensions over the merely physical. Characteristic of the artist's mature approach, the work displays graceful, decorative Neoclassicism combining classical subject matter with a lyrical sweetness, soft color, elegant figure types, pendant portraits and mythological scenes.

The two-figure composition balances the contrasting characters through pose and gesture. Kauffmann’s delicate handling and refined palette create an elegant interpretation of the classical subject.