Apullia In Search of Appullus (1814)

Apullia in search of Appullus is an evocative depiction of a mythological tale inspired by Ovid’s “Metamorphoses,” where a shepherd named Appulus is transformed into an olive tree as punishment for mocking dancing nymphs. The painting, created by the renowned British artist J.M.W. Turner, captures the dramatic moment of transformation with a richly textured landscape, drawing viewers into the myth’s emotional and symbolic depth.

The painting, exhibited in 1814, draws its subject from “Metamorphoses,” a series of mythological tales by the Latin poet Ovid. Turner’s choice of this theme reflects a fascination with classical mythology that was prevalent during the Romantic period. The narrative centers around Appulus, a lazy Latin shepherd, who is turned into an olive tree by the goddess Ceres as punishment for his disrespectful behavior. The artwork also nods to Claude Lorrain’s “Landscape with Jacob and Laban,” from which Turner took inspiration for his composition, blending mythological content with the artistic style of a revered 17th-century painter.

Turner, known for his innovative and experimental techniques, invented a mythical wife named Apulia for the shepherd Appulus in this painting. Apulia, searching for her vanished husband, is shown the olive tree on which his name is carved. This creative addition highlights Turner’s imaginative interpretation of the classical story, adding a layer of emotional complexity to the myth that does not appear in Ovid’s original text.

The painting exemplifies Turner’s engagement with classical themes and his skill in merging narrative and landscape. By choosing a subject from Ovid’s “Metamorphoses,” Turner participates in a broader cultural and artistic movement that sought to revive and reinterpret classical mythology through Romantic sensibilities. The story’s themes of transformation, punishment, and human folly resonate with Romanticism’s fascination with the sublime and the unpredictable forces of nature. Turner’s work can be seen as a symbolic meditation on the consequences of human arrogance and the divine justice meted out by ancient deities.

The painting is an oil on canvas with dimensions of 148.5 x 241 cm or 58 x 94 inches . Turner’s use of oil paint allows for a rich, textured portrayal of both figures and landscape, emphasizing the drama and emotion of the mythological scene. His technique blends fine detail with sweeping, atmospheric effects, showcasing his mastery in manipulating light and color to convey mood and narrative depth.

This painting is currently housed in Tate Britain in London, England. Its inclusion in one of the UK’s most prestigious art collections reflects its importance within Turner’s oeuvre and its continued relevance to art historians and the public alike.