Titian - Diana and Actaeon [1556-59]

Titian - Diana and Actaeon [1556-59], a photo by Gandalf's Gallery on Flickr.

While out hunting, Actaeon accidentally happens upon the secret bathing place of Diana, chaste goddess of the hunt. Titian explores the dramatic impact of his intrusion through a dynamic arrangement of figures, sparkling light, intense colour and animated brushwork. Actaeon's fate is foretold by the stag's skull on the plinth and the skins of Diana's former prey hanging above her head.

The National Galleries of Scotland and the National Gallery, London, formed a partnership in August 2008 to raise £50 million to acquire this painting. The acquisition was made possible with generous contributions from private and public donations, Scottish Government, the National Heritage Memorial Fund, The Monument Trust, The Art Fund charity and NGL and NGS funds.

[Oil on canvas, 184.5 x 202.2 cm]