Mercury Ordering Calypso to Release Odysseus

1680

During his wanderings, Odysseus encounters the nymph Calypso, who falls in love with him and holds him captive on her island. Jupiter then sends Mercury to command her to let Odysseus return to his wife. Lairesse made this painting, together with several other works representing exemplary love and devotion, for Mary Stuart’s apartments in Soestdijk Palace.