Cephalus Hiding the Jewels

Bernardino Luini

National Gallery of Art

This is a fresco showing a pastoral scene with human activity. The viewpoint is slightly elevated, overlooking a hilly landscape with structures, trees, and five people, some of whom are dressed in gold robes. The people are engaged in various activities such as walking across the hills or kneeling beside a tree, tending to something on the ground. The person closest to us is to the left of center, kneeling down and lifting a small hammer in the air. This person has pale skin and golden hair, and they wear a golden robe over a white shirt and white pants. The color palette is muted and earthy, with soft greens, browns, and yellows dominating the scene.