3-095-220 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Alpheus and Arethusa, 1684. In Greek mythology, the nymph Arethusa came across a clear stream and began bathing, not knowing it was the river god Alpheus. He fell in love with her, but she fled after discovering his presence and intentions, as she wished to remain chaste. After a long chase, she prayed to her goddess Artemis who hid her in a cloud.