Ovid described how Actaeon accidentally came upon Diana naked, while out hunting and was changed by her into a stag and killed by his own hounds. The treatment of the landscape, which was always greatly admired, is of a freedom which was not fully achieved again until the 19th century. Purchased after a successful public appeal by the gallery.
More information
Title of artwork, date
The Death of Actaeon, 1559
Date supported
1972
Medium and material
Oil on canvas
Dimensions
178 x 198 cm
Grant
100000
Total cost
1763000
Get a National Art Pass and explore National Gallery
You'll see more art and your membership will help museums across the UK
National Art Pass offers available at National Gallery
10% off in shop
Expires: 25 Jun 2026
Art Funded by you FAQs
Contact us
If you have a question about a work of art in our archive, please contact the Programmes team. We’ll be happy to answer your enquiry.