Red-figure hydria (kalpis)

The scene belongs to the cycle of the so-called loves of the gods, which first appear in Greek art in the early 6th c. BC and soon became a popular subject for both vase-painters and sculptors. Usually, such scenes describe the love affairs of male gods, who try to seduce a young boy or girl. Eos is the only female deity represented in that way.

The Villa Giulia Painter was active during the period from about 470 to 440 B.C. using primarily the red-figure technique. Most of his work appears to have been on large vessels, especially kraters of various forms. He mostly favored quiet scenes, but he also included many depictions of Dionysiac religion and unusual myths. As with most ancient artists, his real name is unknown, and he is identified only by the stylistic traits of his work.

Scholars named him after a krater in the Villa Giulia Museum in Rome.