Scene illustrating the story of the Golden Fleece

Pietro da Cortona (Pietro Berrettini) (1596 - 1669)

British Museum

The drawing shows Medea assisting Jason in removing the fleece from the branches of the tree, while the dragon that guarded the fleece sleeps from a potion administered by Medea. On the left stands Orpheus playing a viola, while behind him is the ship Argo. The temple is presumably that of Mars, since the legend related that the fleece was preserved in a grove dedicated to this god. The old man accompanying two of Jason's companions and directing them to the fleece is presumably a priest of the temple. Taken from N. Turner, 'Italian Drawings in the BM, Roman Baroque Drawings', London, 1999.

• Medium: bistre on paper
• Dimensions: 40 x 53 cm
• Art Fund Grant: £15 ( Total: £15)
• ArtFunded in: 1941
• Vendor: Christie's

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