What major exhibition exploring themes of passion and desire through over 80 masterpieces opened at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam in February 2026?

The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam recently unveiled a captivating exhibition that delves into the profound themes of passion, desire, lust, jealousy, cunning, and deceit. This major show, which opened its doors on February 6, 2026, is aptly titled "Metamorphoses." It draws its inspiration from Ovid's classical epic poem of the same name, a foundational text that has stirred the imaginations of artists for over two millennia.

The exhibition showcases more than 80 masterpieces gathered from museums and collections across the globe. Visitors can encounter works by renowned artists such as Bernini, Titian, Correggio, Cellini, Caravaggio, Rubens, Rodin, Brancusi, Magritte, and Bourgeois. These artists, spanning centuries and diverse artistic movements, have interpreted Ovid's tales of transformation through various media, including painting, sculpture, precious metalwork, ceramics, and even contemporary photography and video art. Highlights include Bernini's *Sleeping Hermaphroditus*, Titian's *Danaë*, and Caravaggio's *Narcissus*, among many others that visually articulate the myths of gods, mortals, and their dramatic changes of form.

"Metamorphoses" is an exceptional collaboration between the Rijksmuseum and the Galleria Borghese in Rome, highlighting the enduring influence of Ovid's work on Western art. The exhibition explores how these ancient stories continue to resonate, offering explanations for human passions, sadness, and fears, and demonstrating that the concept of transformation remains profoundly relevant in our ever-changing world. After its run in Amsterdam, the exhibition will travel to Rome, presented in a different configuration, allowing a wider audience to experience this fascinating exploration of art inspired by Ovid's timeless narratives.