A Satyr, Jacques Jordaens, c. 1630 - c. 1635
oil on canvas, h 133.4cm × w 173.8cm Catalogue entry
In Greek mythology, satyrs – half-men and half-goats – were said to live in the woods and mountains. In 17th-century literature, they dwelt in the pastoral paradise of Arcadia, where one could lead a carefree life. The satyr here is presented as a shepherd of goats and sheep. He looks up from playing his flute to smile at the viewer.
