Aurora and Tithonus

Hi everyone! My name is Isabella, and I'm so excited to show you a super cool painting! It's called "Aurora and Tithonus," and it's like a story painted on a canvas. It was made a long, long time ago, in 1705, by an artist named Sebastiano Ricci. Isn't that a fancy name? nn

(Pause for children to respond) nn

Now, look at the painting. Do you see the lady in the middle? That's Aurora! She's the goddess of the dawn, which means she brings the sunlight every morning. She's wearing a beautiful white dress, and she has a crown of roses on her head. See how shiny and bright she looks? nn

(Pause for children to respond and point out details) nn

Next to Aurora are two little chubby babies. We call them putti. One is holding a bright torch, like a flashlight, showing us the dawn's light. The other one is holding a little bowl. What do you think is inside? nn

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And down below, lying down, is Tithonus. He's Aurora's boyfriend. He's a bit sad and old-looking, isn't he? That's because he was given eternal life, but not eternal youth! He's getting older and older, while Aurora stays young and beautiful. nn

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Look closely at the colors! See how bright and colorful Aurora and the putti are? And how the colors get darker and earthier as you look towards the bottom of the painting, where Tithonus is? The artist, Sebastiano Ricci, was really good at using light and shadow to make the painting look exciting and dramatic. It's like a little play unfolding right before our eyes! nn

(Pause for children to observe the use of light and shadow) nn

This painting tells us a story about love, growing old, and how beautiful things can sometimes be short-lived. It's a bit like a fairy tale, but painted instead of written. What do you think the artist wanted us to feel when we look at this painting? nn

(Pause for children to share their thoughts and feelings) nn

So, next time you see the sunrise, remember Aurora and Tithonus. Remember this beautiful painting and the story it tells. Isn't art amazing? Now, let's go see some more wonderful paintings!