Ganymede

In ancient Greek mythology, Ganymede is a handsome youth born into the royal family of Troy. Falling in love with him, the god Zeus abducts him, in the form of an eagle, and transports him to Mount Olympus. There the young man serves the gods as a cup-bearer. In the given context, the myth could have a personal meaning, as well as an allegorical one - as the soul’s endeavour to reach loftier and nobler goals. Michelangelo’s drawing is now missing, but there exist many copies by outstanding artists.