Procris and Cephalos Jean Honore Fragonard (1732-1806)

In this painting, the mythological figures of Procris and Cephalus are depicted in a pastoral landscape. Cephalus, dressed in pink and yellow drapery, is shown reaching down to Procris, who lies on the ground. There is an arrow piercing Procriss chest, and Cephalus appears to be holding her hand, possibly in a gesture of regret or concern. The background is filled with lush green foliage and red flowers, suggesting a natural, idyllic setting which contrasts with the tragic event unfolding. A small dog is visible in the background, also a characteristic element in the myth of Cephalus and Procris, often associated with the hunt.
The painting captures the climax of the myth where Cephalus, mistaking his wife Procris for an animal while hunting, fatally shoots her with an arrow. The subtexts here revolve around themes of tragic love, mistaken identity, and the unfortunate consequences of actions driven by instinct or misperception. The idyllic setting serves to heighten the pathos of the scene, emphasizing the destruction of beauty and love by a fateful mistake. The tenderness in Cephaluss posture, combined with the wound on Procris, conveys a powerful sense of sorrow and irreparable loss.