The swan is linked to a few tales from Greek mythology, but the most frequently associated one is that of Phaeton and Cycnus. The story goes they were chasing each other across the sky when they came too close to the sun. Their chariots burned up and the pair fell to Earth. Once Cycnus woke up, he began to search for his friend, but Phaeton had fallen into a river and died.
Cycnus was unable to recover the body, so made a pact with Zeus to transform him into a swan. Cycnus then dove into the river, retrieved Phaeton’s body so he could have a proper burial to ensure his soul travelled safely to the afterlife.
Zeus was so moved by Cycnus’ sacrifice that he placed him in the sky for all eternity.
Cygnus is best seen between late June and September from anywhere on Earth except the bottom half of the southern hemisphere.
This A5 watercolour comes with its own carefully researched History Note detailing the story behind the constellation. As Cygnus is closely associated with friendship and sacrifice, it would make the perfect gift for a dear friend.
The swan is linked to a few tales from Greek mythology, but the most frequently associated one is that of Phaeton and Cycnus. The story goes they were chasing each other across the sky when they came too close to the sun. Their chariots burned up and the pair fell to Earth. Once Cycnus woke up, he began to search for his friend, but Phaeton had fallen into a river and died.
Cycnus was unable to recover the body, so made a pact with Zeus to transform him into a swan. Cycnus then dove into the river, retrieved Phaeton’s body so he could have a proper burial to ensure his soul travelled safely to the afterlife.
Zeus was so moved by Cycnus’ sacrifice that he placed him in the sky for all eternity.
Cygnus is best seen between late June and September from anywhere on Earth except the bottom half of the southern hemisphere.
This A5 watercolour comes with its own carefully researched History Note detailing the story behind the constellation. As Cygnus is closely associated with friendship and sacrifice, it would make the perfect gift for a dear friend.
