The Muses: Clio and Thalia

Robert Fagan (Cork c.1745 – Rome 1816). Oil painting on canvas, The Muses: Clio and Thalia by Robert Fagan (Cork c.1745 – Rome 1816), 1793/95. Grisaille panel of two full-length classical female figures in classical robes, the figure on the left, Clio ('renown'; Muse of History) is facing, her weight on her right foot, turned to right profile, she leans on a plinth behind her, and rests her left arm on it, in her left hand she holds a book which she appears to be reading, her right hand has a stylus; the figure on the right, Thalia, (Comedy and Pastoral Poetry and Festivals) is also facing, feet planted firmly apart, her head turned to right, almost profile, her right hand extended holding a wand (?) her left hand holds up a mask representing Comedy. Attingham Park, Shropshire (Accredited Museum)