Ariadne Abandoned by Theseus is an oil-on-canvas painting by the Swiss artist Angelica Kauffman.

Ariadne Abandoned by Theseus is one of Kauffman's few history paintings depicting a single figure.

[2] Angelica Kauffman was recognized to have talent in her youth and her father encouraged her development in painting and education in Italy.

[3] She painted Ariadne Abandoned by Theseus during her time at the English court when she was an annual exhibitor with the British Royal Academy between 1769 and 1782.

[4] This painting was exhibited in the Royal Academy in 1774 with two other works of Kauffman's; Calypso Assenting to the Departure of Ulysses and Penelope Invoking Minerva's Aid for the Safe Return of Telemachus.

After Ariadne Abandoned by Theseus was exhibited, it was purchased by George Bowles, one of Angelica's greatest supporters.

"[6] Though after her time, critics often overlooked her gentle technique and approach to these subjects in favor of more heroic and solemn pieces.

Ariadne is shown draped in sheer white fabric, lounged on a low cushion bed with a vibrant red blanket with gold tassels underneath her.

In the background to the left, Theseus's ship is seen with its sail up and heading towards the soft pink horizon.

Connections are drawn to Ariadne's pose of despair in reaction to the massacre of her love with Theseus.

The two paintings are similar in the fact that both women are shown reaching out, in mourning, and Theseus' ship is seen sailing away in the background.

Ariadne either hangs herself, is left to die on the Island of Naxos, or Bacchus (Dionysus) finds and weds her.