Taurus

According to myth, Europa was a Phoenician princess with whom the god Zeus had become enamored. One day as she was out gathering flowers, the god transformed himself into a placid white bull in order to hide himself among her family's herd. When Europa sat down upon the tame animal's back, he immediately sprang into the sea, and abducted her to the island of Crete.

The myth has lent itself to many famous images since. The upper half of the bull, as could be seen above the waves, is the symbol of Taurus, while Europa herself is the patroness of Europe.

I used the lovely stock of Lockstock [link] as reference for the pose.

Coloured pencil and watercolour, 11" x 14", 2011.