The precise subject of this classical marine study has not been identified.
It is the working cartoon for a fresco in the Gallery of the Palazzo Farnese, Rome. All the early sources attribute it to Agostino. The cartoon is thought to be in large part or possibly entirely by Agostino. Some changes between the cartoon and the fresco are probably due to Annibale Carracci, by whom there are studies for the triton on the right.
Another cartoon in the collection, 'Cephalus carried off by Aurora in her Chariot' was designed for the same project.
Key facts
Artist
Artist dates
1557 - 1602
Full title
A Woman borne off by a Sea God (?)
Date made
about 1599
Medium and support
Charcoal and white chalk (a grey wash applied later over the whole) on paper
Dimensions
203.2 x 410.2 cm
Acquisition credit
Presented by Lord Francis Egerton, 1837
Inventory number
NG148
Location in Gallery
Other paintings in the group: The Farnese Gallery Cartoons
Painting
Agostino Carracci
about 1597
