Label
2022, Echoes of the Classical World
Zeus, god of the sky, spotted Europa, the Phoenician princess, with her maidens in a field. He desired her, yet feared Hera’s wrath, so he disguised himself as a white bull, and visited the field where Europa was. There, the young maidens were infatuated with the bull’s beauty and his mild temperament. They gathered around him, petting, praising, and adorning him with flowers. Europa, intrigued by his docility, climbed upon his back, inviting her friends to join her. Yet, before they could, Zeus carried Europa away to the island of Crete, never to be rescued. This sculpture showcases the mere moment before Europa was taken, a frozen image of innocent adoration and youthful beauty. A brilliant depiction of the calm before the storm, this piece speaks to the idea of focusing on the beauty while ignoring the tragedy.
Text by Haven Simnitt, Washburn student