Peter Paul Rubens - The Three Graces [c.1636-38]

Peter Paul Rubens - The Three Graces [c.1636-38], a photo by Gandalf's Gallery on Flickr.

In Greek mythology, a Charis is one of several Charites, goddesses of charm, beauty, nature, human creativity and fertility. They ordinarily numbered three, from youngest to oldest: Aglaea (Splendour), Euphrosyne (Mirth), and Thalia (Good Cheer). In Roman mythology they were known as the Gratiae, the Graces. In some cases Charis was one of the Graces and was not the plural form of their name. Homer wrote that they were part of the retinue of Aphrodite. The Charites were also associated with the Greek underworl and the Eleusinian Mysteries. The river Cephissus near Delphi was sacred to them.

[National Gallery, London - Oil on canvas, 221 x 181 cm]