Home > Arts > Artists > A > Nicolai Abraham Abildgaard
Thetis Immersing her Infant Son Achilles in the River Styx to Make him Invulnerable, 1794-1798. Creator: Nicolai Abraham Abildgaard
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Thetis Immersing her Infant Son Achilles in the River Styx to Make him Invulnerable, 1794-1798. Creator: Nicolai Abraham Abildgaard
Thetis Immersing her Infant Son Achilles in the River Styx to Make him Invulnerable, 1794-1798
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 36288245
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Abildgaard Nicolai Abraham Achilles Charon Ferryman Kharon Mythical Figure Mythological Figure Nereid Nicolai Abildgaard Nicolai Abraham Abildgaard Nymph Parent Sea Nymph Styx Thetis Vulnerability Achilles Heel Dane Danes Greek Mythology Infancy Infant National Gallery Of Denmark Statens Museum For Kunst
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> A
> Nicolai Abraham Abildgaard
> Europe
> Denmark
> Paintings
> Europe
> Denmark
> Related Images
> Europe
> Greece
> Related Images
> Historic
> Ancient civilizations
> Ancient Greece
> Greek history
EDITORS COMMENTS
This oil painting, titled "Thetis Immersing her Infant Son Achilles in the River Styx to Make him Invulnerable," is a masterpiece by the renowned Danish artist Nicolai Abraham Abildgaard, created between 1794 and 1798. The painting depicts a pivotal moment in Greek mythology, where the sea nymph Thetis, played by the elegant woman in the painting, cradles her young son Achilles, represented by the chubby, naked baby in her arms. Thetis, a powerful Nereid, sought to make her son invulnerable to harm, believing that he was destined for greatness and a tragic end. She dipped him into the River Styx, holding him by the heel, which she had kept dry. The river, personified by the turbulent waters and the ominous figure of Charon, the ferryman, in the background, granted Achilles invulnerability to all wounds, except for his heel. The painting is a stunning representation of motherly love and the lengths a mother will go to protect her child. Thetis' determination and devotion are evident in her intense gaze and her firm grip on her son. The contrast between the tranquil, nurturing scene and the ominous, chaotic waters of the River Styx adds depth and intrigue to the painting. This artwork is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Denmark and the artistic prowess of Nicolai Abraham Abildgaard. It is currently housed in the Statens Museum for Kunst (National Gallery of Denmark) and is a must-see for anyone interested in art, mythology, or the human condition.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
