44. Tapestry depicting the story of Atalanta and Hippomenes, Brussels 18th century The scene is set in a wooded landscape with a hilly background and a village; the protagonists are cheered on at the finishing line by Venus, putti and figures draped in antique style. Rich border of garlands of flowers and foliage. 300 x 390 cm Tapestry depicting 'Atalanta and Hippomenes', Brussels 18th century The scene is set in a wooded landscape with a hilly background and a village; the protagonists are cheered on at the finishing line by Venus, putti and figures draped in antique style. Rich border of garlands of flowers and foliage. Taken from Ovid's Metamorphoses, our tapestry tells the story of the conquest of love by a woman who is sure of her sporting qualities. A beautiful young woman, Atalanta invites her suitors to take part in a race. If the man beats Atalanta, she marries him; if he fails, he is killed. When she meets Hippomenes, Atalanta feels in love. To unite them, Venus decides to help Hippomenes cross the finishing line first. She gave him three golden apples, which he used as traps to slow down Atalanta. Hippomenes won the race and married Atalanta.