Europa and the Bull

"Europa and the Bull", 4th century B.C.

Although there are no historical facts specifically related to this piece, this statuette illustrates a controversial myth which tells the story of how Jupiter disguised himself as a bull to trick Europa into climbing onto his back. Taking advantage of this moment, Jupiter kidnaps Europa to the Island of Crete where he then rapes and leaves her. The details of the myth in conjunction with the continuation of this motif (of Europa riding the Bull) in art throughout centuries and today, is an interesting comment on the evolution of women’s status in society and rape culture from Ancient Greece to the present day.