Daedalus and Icarus are getting ready to escape the evil king Minos with their newly built wings. Imprisoned in a high tower of the royal palace they get ready to fly away. They are excited, they are nervous. Will they be discovered before they are ready? Will it work? Can they escape? Or will they plunge to death?
A final deep breath and they jump down …
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1. Click player below to start the music. 2. Click the image to dive into the art. 3. Study for three minutes this great piece of art and all the drama. |
This is one of the most iconic images of the series: the cranky and bend father preparing the young and beautiful son for the escape. Note the wind in the ropes - and especially the black rope behind Icarus as a bad omen of what’s to come.
I also like that Leighton has made some effort to present the Greek theme with the statue in the background as well as including a high place for a better takeoff.
Part of the Art Motive Series: "The Story of Daedalus and Icarus"