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Student Artwork Guide

Danae

Jacopo Tintoretto, 1578

Name Class Date
Jacopo Tintoretto, Danae (1578), Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon. Public domain. See this canvas under a moving light: the drawing, the true colour under the varnish, the bare pigment

The facts

Artist
Jacopo Tintoretto originaluniqueart.com/en/artists/jacopo-tintoretto/
Artist’s dates
1518 – 1594
Painted
1578
Medium
Oil On Canvas
Original size
142 x 182 cm
Movement
Baroque Dramatic, theatrical pictures using deep shadow and strong diagonals to pull you into the action.
Period
Renaissance
Held at
Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon originaluniqueart.com/en/museums/museum-of-fine-arts-of-lyon-lyon/
Subject or theme
Mythological story of Danae and Zeus

Copyright This work is in the public domain. Jacopo Tintoretto died in 1594; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it ended in 1664.

Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 8, 2026

Danae — Jacopo Tintoretto Part 1 · The artwork

In context

Danae — Jacopo Tintoretto

How big is it?

The original measures 142 × 182 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When was this painted?

  1. 1510
  2. 1520
  3. 1530
  4. 1540
  5. 1550
  6. 1560
  7. 1570
  8. 1580
  9. 1590

Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 76 at death.

Painted when the artist was 60. The artist lived to 76. 283 of the 417 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.

Shaded: the lifetime of Jacopo Tintoretto (1518–1594) ▲ this work, 1578 every dated painting, decade by decade

First works: up to 1555 Main working years: 1555–1579 Late works: from 1579

Those three bands split the works this catalogue has a date for into a first quarter, a middle half and a last quarter. They are not the artist’s complete output: a thin stretch may be a gap in the record rather than a quiet spell. The same years with the artist’s life laid along them

Compare with

Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.

More works to set beside this one: originaluniqueart.com/en/art/similar/jacopo-tintoretto-danae-D2SKJT-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Walnut #6c3c23

    Catalogued palette

    • #6C3C23
    • #9D734C
    • #311D16
    • #E0B989

    These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour

    Palette
    Earthy The dominant colour family in the image.
    Main colour name
    Walnut
    Intensity
    Balanced How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Bold How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Strong Color Unity How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Deep_shadow How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Balanced Soft How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Where in the world is this painting looked at?

    • under 1%
    • 1–3%
    • 3–8%
    • 8–20%
    • 20% and over
    This painting alone has too few recorded visitors to map, so the plate reads every work by Jacopo Tintoretto over the last twelve months — 54 countries in all. Where these figures come from

    The ten leading countries

    1. 1 China 43.1%53,400 visits
    2. 2 United States of America 8.2%10,100 visits
    3. 3 Singapore 7.8%9,700 visits
    4. 4 Italy 6.9%8,500 visits
    5. 5 Hong Kong 6.2%7,700 visits
    6. 6 Romania 4.8%6,000 visits
    7. 7 Spain 4.2%5,200 visits
    8. 8 United Kingdom 2.9%3,600 visits
    9. 9 Germany 2.3%2,900 visits
    10. 10 France 2.3%2,900 visits
    11. · 44 other countries 11.3%13,900 visits

    Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.

    The 20 most looked-at works by Jacopo Tintoretto

    1. 1 The Origin of the Milky Way, 1570 4.4%7,800 visits
    2. 2 The Last Supper, 1594 4.1%7,300 visits
    3. 3 The Miracle of St Augustine, 1549 3.9%6,900 visits
    4. 4 The Miracle of St Mark Freeing the Slave, 1548 3.5%6,300 visits
    5. 5 Crucifixion, 1565 2.7%4,900 visits
    6. 6 Susanna and the Elders, 1557 2.7%4,800 visits
    7. 7 Christ Washing the Feet of His Disciples (detail), 1547 1.8%3,200 visits
    8. 8 Portrait of a Woman Revealing Her Breasts, 1570 1.7%3,000 visits
    9. 9 St Roch in Prison Visited by an Angel (detail), 1567 1.5%2,600 visits
    10. 10 Probatica Piscina, 1559 1.1%2,000 visits
    11. 11 The Presentation of Christ in the Temple, 1550 1.1%1,900 visits
    12. 12 The Miracle of Manna, 1594 1.0%1,700 visits
    13. 13 Susanna and the Elders (detail), 1555 1.0%1,700 visits
    14. 14 The Descent into Hell, 1568 1.0%1,700 visits
    15. 15 Paradise 1.0%1,700 visits
    16. 16 Christ Carried to the Tomb (detail), 1565 0.9%1,600 visits
    17. 17 Self-Portrait, 1588 0.9%1,600 visits
    18. 18 Jonah Leaves the Whale's Belly, 1577 0.9%1,600 visits
    19. 19 Judith and Holofernes (detail), 1579 0.9%1,600 visits
    20. — Danae, 1578 this painting 0.0%0 visits

    Together these works take 36.1% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 542 works by this artist, of which 352 were looked at at least once. This painting has not been looked at yet in that time — it closes the list without a rank. The same counts, month by month

    Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 8, 2026

    Danae — Jacopo Tintoretto Part 2 · In context

    About this artwork

    Danae — Jacopo Tintoretto

    A Symphony of Shadow and Desire

    In the evocative masterpiece Danae, Jacopo Tintoretto invites the viewer into a realm where the boundaries between the mortal and the divine dissolve amidst a sea of dramatic shadows. The painting captures a pivotal moment from Greek mythology, depicting the princess of Argos, Danaë, held in seclusion within a bronze tower by her father to thwart a dark prophecy. Within this intimate, opulent setting, the atmosphere is thick with palpable passion and an almost electric tension. As the figures lie together upon a luxurious bed draped in rich textures, the scene transcends mere mythological retelling, becoming a profound exploration of human vulnerability and the overwhelming power of fate.

    The composition is a masterclass in the Venetian Baroque style, characterized by a restless, cinematic energy that seems to pulse from the canvas. Tintoretto, often known as Il Furioso, employs a breathtaking use of chiaroscuro to sculpt the figures out of the profound darkness. Light does not simply illuminate the scene; it strikes the flesh of the lovers with a sudden, divine radiance, carving their forms against the deep, velvety shadows of the room. This dramatic interplay of light and dark creates an illusionistic depth that draws the eye into the very heart of the embrace, making the viewer feel like a silent witness to this clandestine encounter.

    The Texture of Myth and Emotion

    Beyond the striking visual drama, the painting is imbued with deep symbolic resonance. The presence of red curtains adds an element of luxury and theatricality, framing the central figures in a way that suggests both protection and entrapment. The subtle inclusion of two dogs near the bed introduces a layer of domestic intimacy, contrasting the grand, cosmic scale of the myth with the quiet, earthly reality of the moment. Every brushstroke serves to build texture, from the luminous glow of skin to the heavy, tactile folds of the drapery, contributing to a sense of realism that is both visceral and dreamlike.

    For the discerning collector or interior designer, Danae offers more than just a beautiful image; it provides a focal point of immense emotional gravity. The painting’s ability to evoke a sense of movement and divine intervention makes it an extraordinary piece for spaces that demand character and depth. It is a work that speaks to the enduring human fascination with desire, destiny, and the transformative power of light. To possess a reproduction of such a monumental work is to bring a fragment of Venetian grandeur and the feverish spirit of the Renaissance into one's own surroundings, offering a window into a world where art and myth are inextricably entwined.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 8, 2026

    Danae — Jacopo Tintoretto Part 3 · About this artwork

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    Jacopo Tintoretto

    Born in Venice, Italy

    A Venetian Master of Drama and Light

    Jacopo Tintoretto, born Jacopo Robusti in Venice around 1518, remains one of the most compelling and enigmatic figures of the High Renaissance and early Baroque periods. His very nickname, “Tintoretto” – little dyer – speaks to his family’s trade, yet it belies the immense artistry that would distinguish him from all others. Unlike many artists who benefited from structured apprenticeships, Tintoretto's path was largely self-directed, fueled by an insatiable curiosity and a relentless drive for innovation. While accounts suggest a brief and unsuccessful stint under Titian, the acknowledged master of Venetian colorism, it seems the experience proved more contentious than formative. Titian’s alleged dismissal of the young Jacopo – whether due to jealousy or artistic disagreement – spurred Tintoretto toward an independent course, one characterized by audacious experimentation and a uniquely dynamic style. He immersed himself in anatomical study, reportedly through dissection, and honed his skills by meticulously copying classical sculpture and the works of other masters. This dedication laid the foundation for a career that would redefine Venetian painting.

    Forging a Distinctive Style: *Il Furioso*

    Tintoretto’s artistic development was marked by an almost feverish energy, earning him another evocative nickname: Il Furioso – “the Furious One.” This moniker wasn't merely descriptive of his working pace but also captured the intensity and emotional charge that permeated his canvases. His early works already hinted at a departure from traditional Venetian conventions. While acknowledging Titian’s influence in color, Tintoretto gravitated towards Michelangelo’s powerful figures and dramatic compositions. He synthesized these influences into something entirely new: a style characterized by elongated forms, swirling draperies, and an innovative use of perspective that often created a sense of dizzying depth and movement. He abandoned the meticulous finish favored by his contemporaries, opting instead for a rapid, almost sketch-like brushstroke that conveyed immediacy and raw emotion. This technique, combined with his masterful manipulation of light and shadow – chiaroscuro – allowed him to create scenes of unparalleled drama and psychological intensity. He wasn’t simply depicting events; he was conveying their emotional core.

    Monumental Achievements: San Rocco and Beyond

    Tintoretto's prodigious output spanned decades, encompassing religious narratives, historical allegories, and portraits. However, his most significant achievement lies in the cycle of paintings he created for the Scuola Grande di San Rocco, a Venetian confraternity dedicated to Saint Roch. Over a period of more than fifty years, Tintoretto adorned the Scuola’s halls with over sixty canvases, transforming it into a breathtaking visual testament to faith and human experience. Works like “The Last Supper,” completed late in his life, demonstrate his continued experimentation with perspective and composition. Departing from traditional depictions, Tintoretto placed the scene in a dramatically lit, architecturally unstable space, emphasizing the emotional turmoil of Christ’s final meal with his disciples. Other notable works include "The Miracle of St Mark Freeing the Slave," a powerful display of dynamic composition and foreshortening, and numerous paintings for Venetian churches and palaces that showcase his mastery of scale and narrative storytelling. These monumental projects cemented Tintoretto's reputation as one of Venice’s most important artists.

    Legacy and Historical Significance

    Jacopo Tintoretto died in Venice in 1594, leaving behind a vast and influential body of work. He bridged the gap between the High Renaissance and the Baroque period, anticipating many of the stylistic innovations that would define the latter. His dramatic compositions, expressive brushwork, and innovative use of light and shadow profoundly influenced artists such as Caravaggio, Rembrandt, and Delacroix. He wasn’t merely a painter; he was a visual storyteller who understood how to harness the power of art to evoke emotion and inspire awe. As one of the three great Venetian painters of the 16th century – alongside Titian and Paolo Veronese – Tintoretto played a crucial role in shaping the artistic landscape of Venice during its golden age. His work reflects not only the religious fervor and political tensions of his time but also a uniquely personal vision that continues to resonate with audiences today, solidifying his place as one of history’s most important and captivating artists. His legacy is a testament to the enduring power of artistic innovation and the transformative potential of human creativity.

    Museum

    Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon

    On show in Lyon, France

    A Journey Through Artistic Epochs: Exploring Lyon’s Musée des Beaux-Arts

    The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon stands as a testament to centuries of artistic evolution, nestled in the heart of Lyon's historic Place des Terreaux. More than just a repository of masterpieces, it embodies the spirit of French cultural heritage and offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the narratives woven through art history. Its origins lie within the venerable Abbey of Saint-Pierre-les-Nonnains, transforming over time into the magnificent museum we see today—a building itself steeped in grandeur and reflecting architectural styles from Louis XIV onwards.

    Architectural Legacy:

    The Musée’s current edifice is primarily attributed to Thomas Blanchet, whose baroque refectory and monumental staircase exemplify the opulent aesthetic favored during the reign of Louis XIV. This architectural marvel serves as a stunning backdrop for the museum's artistic treasures.

    A Revolutionary Transformation:

    Following the French Revolution, the abbey underwent repurposing as Palais du Commerce et des Arts, adapting to the changing social landscape while preserving its core structure. Subsequent renovations in 1988-1998 ensured meticulous preservation and accessibility for contemporary audiences.

    A Kaleidoscope of Artistic Expressions

    The Musée’s collection boasts an astonishing breadth, encompassing artworks spanning millennia and representing diverse artistic traditions. Visitors can embark on a captivating voyage through time, encountering treasures from Ancient Egypt—detailed sculptures and funerary masks offering glimpses into beliefs and rituals—to the vibrant canvases of European painters from the 14th to the 20th centuries. Nicolas Poussin’s serene landscapes alongside Ingres’ meticulous portraits exemplify classical elegance, while Delacroix's dramatic Romantic fervor contrasts sharply with Cézanne’s groundbreaking explorations of form and color. And of course, Van Gogh’s emotive brushstrokes resonate powerfully within the museum’s walls.

    Italian Masters:

    Admire the virtuosity of Italian artists like Perugino, Veronese, Tintoretto, and Canaletto—their frescoes and canvases illuminate the Renaissance spirit with breathtaking detail.

    French Art Through Time:

    Trace the evolution of French artistic styles from the 16th to the 20th centuries, witnessing stylistic shifts reflecting societal changes and intellectual currents.

    Beyond Static Displays: Dynamic Exhibitions

    What truly distinguishes Lyon’s Musée des Beaux-Arts is its commitment to fostering artistic dialogue. Rotating exhibitions regularly showcase both celebrated masters and emerging talents—a dynamic program designed to stimulate curiosity and inspire contemplation. These exhibitions delve into thematic explorations, prompting visitors to consider connections between art and culture across eras, enriching their understanding of the human experience.

    A Singular Destination for Art Enthusiasts

    Situated within this beautifully restored historical building, the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon offers more than just visual delight; it provides a profound connection to artistic heritage. Its location alone contributes to an immersive atmosphere—a space where history breathes alongside creativity—making it an unforgettable experience for anyone passionate about art and eager to discover the enduring legacy of European culture.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Danae

    originaluniqueart.com/en/art/download/jacopo-tintoretto-danae-D2SKJT-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Tintoretto, Jacopo. Danae. 1578, Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/jacopo-tintoretto-danae-D2SKJT-en/
    APA
    Tintoretto, Jacopo (1578). Danae [Painting]. Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/jacopo-tintoretto-danae-D2SKJT-en/
    Chicago
    Jacopo Tintoretto. Danae. 1578. Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon. https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/jacopo-tintoretto-danae-D2SKJT-en/
    Harvard
    Tintoretto, Jacopo (1578) Danae. Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon. Available at: https://originaluniqueart.com/en/art/jacopo-tintoretto-danae-D2SKJT-en/

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 8, 2026

    Danae — Jacopo Tintoretto Part 4 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    Danae — Jacopo Tintoretto

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: woman, man, bed. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at The Origin of the Milky Way (1570), earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Baroque: Dramatic, theatrical pictures using deep shadow and strong diagonals to pull you into the action. Where can you see that in this work?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 8, 2026

    Danae — Jacopo Tintoretto Part 5 · Look closely

    Art quiz

    Danae — Jacopo Tintoretto

    How well do you know this artwork?

    Tick one answer for each of the 5 questions below. Each has exactly one correct answer.

    1. 1. What is the mythological story depicted in this painting?

      • A The birth of Perseus
      • B The story of Danae
      • C The legend of Andromeda

    2. 2. Where was Danae locked by her father to protect her from suitors?

      • A A golden palace
      • B A bronze tower
      • C A marble chamber

    3. 3. What color are the curtains in the room where the scene is set?

      • A Blue
      • B Gold
      • C Red

    4. 4. How many dogs are present in the painting?

      • A One
      • B Two
      • C Three

    5. 5. What is the approximate size of the painting?

      • A 142 x 182 cm
      • B 100 x 150 cm
      • C 200 x 250 cm

    My score: ____ out of 5

    Answer key — for the teacher

    This starts a fresh printed page, so it can simply be left out of the copies.

    1B · 2B · 3C · 4B · 5A

    Check any answer against the catalogue record for this painting

    Source: OriginalUniqueArt.com — accessed Oct. 8, 2026

    Danae — Jacopo Tintoretto Part 6 · Art quiz

    Questions & Answers

    What feeling does "Danae" by Jacopo Tintoretto convey?

    In "Danae", a dramatic mood accompanies a passionate emotion.

    What space matches the colors of "Danae" by Jacopo Tintoretto?

    With its earthy palette, "Danae" by Jacopo Tintoretto is recommended for a restaurant (fine dining). The colors are part of the reason for this suggestion.

    Is a download available for "Danae"?

    "Danae" by Jacopo Tintoretto can be downloaded from the artwork's Download page, as a high-resolution digital image download.