It takes an embryologist...

Fascinating article on CultureLab about how an embryologist has identified the symbols on Danaë's cloak in Klimt's iconic painting as blastocysts -- early embryo forms. The symbolism is apt as the legend of Danaë has it that she was locked away from men by her father, but Zeus disguised himself as a river of golden coins, thus managing to impregnate her. Scott Gilbert, who proferred the new interpretation, found that Klimt often attended gatherings in Vienna, to which an eclectic mix of artists and scientists was invited. More details here.