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Anzia and Abrocome meet at the Feasts of Diana
Historical Context
This scene from the ancient Greek novel by Xenophon of Ephesus depicts the young lovers Anzia and Abrocome meeting at a festival of Diana — a subject drawn from the revived interest in ancient romance literature among educated Venetian patrons. Tiepolo painted it in 1743 during his most productive period, when he was simultaneously managing major fresco campaigns across northern Italy. The literary subject suited his theatrical sensibility and gift for staging dramatic encounters.
Technical Analysis
Theatrical staging arranges the figures before an architectural backdrop that creates a sense of public spectacle. Tiepolo's characteristic silvery palette and fluid brushwork give the scene an airy luminosity that lifts it beyond mere illustration.
Look Closer
- ◆Notice the theatrical staging of the young lovers Anzia and Abrocome meeting at a festival of Diana — a scene from the ancient Greek novel by Xenophon of Ephesus.
- ◆Look at the characteristic silvery palette and fluid brushwork giving the scene airy luminosity that lifts it beyond illustration.
- ◆Observe the architectural backdrop creating a sense of public spectacle for this rare literary subject drawn from revived interest in ancient romance.
