In ancient Greek mythology, Atalanta was a huntress who joined the voyage with Jason and the Argonuats to fetch the Golden Fleece. In this painting by the English Victorianm classical artist Sir E.J. Poynter (18361919), she is shown running a race against Hippommenes, who wishes to marry her. Atalanta had made a rule that she would marry the person who defeated her in a foot race. Those she defeated would be killed. After Hippomenes sought her hand in marriage, a time for the race was set. On the signal, Atalanta raced ahead. Hippommenes then dropped three apples on the ground. As Atalanta slowed her pace to pick up the apples, Hippomenes pull ahead and won the race.