Skip to main content

Main Building

Bacchus and Ariadne on the Isle of Naxos

c. 1693
Antoine Coypel (French, 1661–1722)
This painting was commissioned by the Duke of Orléans, only brother of King Louis XIV, to decorate a small, private room in his Château of Saint-Cloud. The subject derives from Ovid's Metamorphoses. Ariadne, daughter of King Minos of Crete, has been abandoned by her lover Theseus, whom she had rescued from the labyrinth. As she mourns his departure she is discovered by the god Bacchus, who immediately marries her. Coypel depicts the tender moment of transition as Ariadne's tears give way to feelings of newborn love.

Object Details

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.


Main Building