The Abduction of Europa

We think no lady would mind being abducted by such a soft large cat, as large as the mythic bull!

Valentin Serov, The Rape of Europa, true version, or, better, the Escape of Europa

Please notice, that the cat bull’s horns take on the shape of a lyre.
Thus, the master, Valentin Serov, emphasized Our close relations with Arrrt

As the Cat in the painting looks wise and is relieved of his animal desires, the word “rape” sounds a bit too hard for the title of this dreamlike journey of 2 loving hearts

But the commonly known version of the masterpiece, to be seen at the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow , is exhibited under this title:

The Rape of Europa, from the Tretyakov Gallery collection

The bull, to his honor, also looks decent and peaceful, driving Europa from human all too human problems far into the warm blue sea, maybe to a paradise island with juicy green pastures.

Moreover, the original painting, featuring the cat instead of a bull, definitely should be renamed “The Escape of Europe”!