Scena d’Arcadia

This work shows young women in refined poses and a boy stretching out his hand towards a dog. In the distance, some bathers and a pair of lovers emerge almost transparently. The painting is an allegory of literary Arcadia, a celebration of beauty and harmony between man and nature. Creti's work recalls the highly refined elegance of the Emilian tradition of Parmigianino and Nicolò dell'Abate, achieving excellent concept and form. Similar to the oval with Thetis Dipping the Infant Achilles into the Waters of the Styx, it is likely that the painting had a horizontal format.