This image depicts Hebe the Greek goddess of youth. According to Greek mythology she was the daughter of Jupiter and Juno. Hebe is depicted alongside Jupiter’s eagle. She stands with a jug in one hand, from which she has just poured nectar into a cup. At her side the eagle cranes its neck to drink. The theme of Hebe and the eagle of Jupiter occurs in female portraits, flattering the sitter by implying that she shares Hebe’s youth and beauty.

Provenance: Founders’ bequest B.M.269

Object description
Type: Easel painting
Location: Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle, County Durham
Material: Oil on panel
Artist: School of Jean Marc Nattier (1685-1766)
Date: unknown

Image Details
Date: 12 May 2024
Camera body: iPhone Xs
Lens: Wide Camera 26mm ƒ/1.8
Focal Length: 26mm
Aperture: ƒ/1.8
Shutter Speed: 1/50s
ISO: 160
Licensing: Image of a Bowes Museum asset. This image cannot be licensed.