Jupiter and Mercury with Philemon and Baucis

Discussion

FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

In Greek mythology, the gods Jupiter and Mercury disguised themselves as mortals to travel through the ancient kingdom of Phrygia. On their way, they were refused hospitality by almost every household, but Philemon and Baucis, a pious old couple of modest means, selflessly welcomed them into their humble home. The gods rewarded the couple while punishing their neighbors. This engraving by Nicolaes Lauwers is based on a painting by Jacob Jordaens, who depicted the subject more than once. Working in Antwerp, Lauwers often made prints after paintings by local artists, such as Jordaens and Peter Paul Rubens, whose work hangs nearby.

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