~ This painting is a notable example of Pietro Benvenutiâs - born January 8, 1769 - independent work for private patrons. Theseus has abandoned Ariadne, who had led him out of the Labyrinth devised by her father King Minos, on the island of Naxos. Disconsolate in her love for Theseus, the sail of whose departing ship can be seen on the horizon, she falls asleep near rocks by the shore. The God Bacchus, returning from India, is drawn to Ariadne by the figure of Cupid, who pulls him by his quiver strap while cautioning him to silence. Ariadne is naked to her waist, as described by Philostratus - Imagines I.15. Bacchus wears a crown of grape leaves, punctuated by grape clusters, and grasps in his right hand his traditional attribute, the thyrsus, a staff topped with a pine cone. He raises his left arm in a gesture of both astonishment and protection, as he immediately falls in love with Ariadne.  In the distance at left, the aged Silenus, Bacchusâs tutor, is being helped up the hill, while Satyrs drink wine from a goblet and blow pipes, and Maenads carry baskets of grapes and play the tambourine. Ariadne will soon awake and be consoled by Bacchus; the two will marry and enjoy eternal happiness. 1819, oil on canvas, private collection. ~
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