Flight of Europa (Primary Title)
Paul Manship, American, 1885 - 1966 (Artist)
With its sleek modeling and technical sophistication, Flight of Europa exemplifies Manship’s mature art deco style. The scene from Greek mythology renders the moment when Princess Europa, intrigued by the docile appearance of a magnificent bull, climbs onto its back and is carried across the sea to the island of Crete. There the beast’s true identity is revealed as the god Zeus, who presents himself in human form and ravishes her.
Soaring above a pod of swimming dolphins, the bull with his undulating bulk contrasts dramatically with the delicate, upright form of Europa. Looking backward, the young passenger seems to delight in her journey. The whole is suggestive of the archaic Greek sculpture that the artist deeply admired.
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.