Bacchus and AriadneJohn Cheere (1709-1787)None

160.0 x 187.0 cm
National Palace of Queluz

John Cheere (1709-1787) (1709 – 1787)

John Cheere (1709-1787) was a leading English sculptor known for charming lead statues adorning stately homes. Specializing in classical & pastoral themes, his work reflects 18th-century aristocracy's taste. Explore his legacy at Mus3ums!

National Palace of Queluz (Кέλυξ, Португалия)

Discover Queluz National Palace, a stunning Rococo masterpiece reflecting Portuguese history & royal life. Explore opulent interiors, lush gardens, and an impressive art collection showcasing European influences. A journey through grandeur, intrigue, and restoration!

A lead sculpture, representing Bacchus and Ariadne. Bacchus, standing, holds a bunch of grapes in his left hand and has his head decorated with vine leaves and grapes. Ariadne, sitting, holds a chalice. The group is completed by a panther and a cupid. This composition evokes the union between Bacchus (Dionysus), the son of Jupiter (Zeus), and Ariadne, the daughter of the king Minos. Abandoned by Theseus, while she lamented her fate, Ariadne was promised by the goddess Venus (Aphrodite) that she would have an immortal lover. Bacchus found her, consoled her, married her and carried her off to Olympus. As a wedding present, he offered her a golden diadem that, when she died, he threw into the sky and was transformed into a constellation. Ariadne can be considered an old Aegean goddess of vegetation, so that her sacred marriage to Bacchus can be interpreted as the union of two divinities who protected seeds, being associated with the death and the rebirth of vegetation.

About this artwork

Title: Bacchus and Ariadne
Artist: John Cheere (1709-1787)
Original dimensions: 160.0 x 187.0 cm
Format: Portrait
Copyright status: Public domain
Where to see it: National Palace of Queluz
Color hue: Green to Violet Spectrum
Color intensity: Balanced

Questions & Answers

Which artist is "Bacchus and Ariadne" attributed to?

"Bacchus and Ariadne" was created by John Cheere (1709-1787). The information on this page describes John Cheere (1709-1787)'s original work.

What are the dimensions of the original "Bacchus and Ariadne" by John Cheere (1709-1787)?

"Bacchus and Ariadne" measures 160 x 187 cm in its original form. Original dimensions are a useful reference when choosing a reproduction size.

What color leads the composition of "Bacchus and Ariadne" by John Cheere (1709-1787)?

The color that stands out most in "Bacchus and Ariadne" is gray (#767161). The dominant color is useful when matching an artwork to an interior.

Where can I see the original "Bacchus and Ariadne" by John Cheere (1709-1787)?

"Bacchus and Ariadne" by John Cheere (1709-1787) is on display at the National Palace of Queluz, Кέλυξ, Португалия. The museum listing refers to the original work, not to reproductions.

Is "Bacchus and Ariadne" held in the country of its creator?

No - the artwork is kept abroad. John Cheere (1709-1787) was born in United Kingdom, and the original "Bacchus and Ariadne" is held in a museum in Португалия.

Does "Bacchus and Ariadne" show strong light-dark contrasts?

The contrast level of "Bacchus and Ariadne" by John Cheere (1709-1787) is bold.

How is "Bacchus and Ariadne" by John Cheere (1709-1787) proportioned, and how big is it?

"Bacchus and Ariadne" by John Cheere (1709-1787) is proportioned as a portrait work of 160 x 187 cm.