Italian school, second half of the 18th century

Italian school, second half of the 18th century.
"Mythological scene".
Oil on canvas.
Measurements: 41 x 113 cm; 47.5 x 119 cm (frame).
This painting of mythological theme, possibly inspired by some episode of the Iliad, could represent the burial of Hector. Of the hero's lifeless body, only one arm is shown, with its muscular, muscular body. The rest of the body, placed in a wooden coffin by his friends, is covered by a white shroud. The Trojan prince's father, Priam, covers his face in a gesture that conveys tremendous grief. Each character has been sculpted with contrasting lighting that emphasises the anatomical hardness of the men and the delicacy of the women's features. A servant holds a torch to illuminate the interior of the crypt where the body will be laid to eternal rest. This fiery light lends quality and intimacy to the atmosphere of shared grief. This painting belongs to the neoclassical trends of the 18th century in terms of providing moral examples of virtue inspired by antiquity but with veiled messages for his contemporaries. Stylistically, however, it still remains affiliated with the late Baroque.
Homer recounts that Hector's corpse had been tied to Achilles' chariot, which dragged him outside the walls. For twelve days the body was exposed to the sun and animals, but the god Apollo protected it and preserved it from decay. Finally, King Priam, with the help of Hermes, ventured to Achilles' tent and begged for its return. Achilles took pity and, in exchange for a ransom, gave Hector's body to his father, who returned to Troy to perform the funeral.