Who painted Circe and Ulysses?

Circe and Ulysses was painted by French 19th Century in 1850.

Where can I see Circe and Ulysses?

Circe and Ulysses is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Circe and Ulysses?

Circe and Ulysses is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Circe and Ulysses

French 19th Century , 1850

Circe and Ulysses is an ink drawing by the Romanticist artist French 19th Century. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Circe and Ulysses is a pen drawing on laid paper, executed with brown ink and a gray wash. The composition presents a seated female figure in an elongated gown, holding a wand, while a kneeling male figure stands before her. The work captures a moment of tension drawn from classical mythology, rendered in a restrained monochrome palette.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts the encounter between the sorceress Circe and the hero Ulysses (Odysseus) as recounted in Homeric legend. Circe, identified by her wand and regal attire, is poised to exert her magical power, while Ulysses, on his knees, appears to be pleading for clemency. The scene reflects themes of transformation, power dynamics, and the hero’s trials on his return journey.

Technique & Style

The combination of crisp line work with delicate tonal shading exemplifies a disciplined approach to drawing, balancing detail with atmospheric restraint.

The artist employs fine, controlled pen lines to delineate the figures and their garments, creating precise outlines. Subtle gray washes are applied to model form and suggest depth, producing soft shadows that enhance the three‑dimensional effect. The combination of crisp line work with delicate tonal shading exemplifies a disciplined approach to drawing, balancing detail with atmospheric restraint.

History & Provenance

The work is catalogued as a drawing, with its medium noted as pen and brown ink complemented by a gray wash on laid paper. While specific details of its creation date, artist, or ownership lineage are not provided, its visual qualities invite comparison to similar dramatic, detailed drawings held by institutions such as the National Gallery of Art in Washington.

Artist & collection

Artist

French 19th Century

This sculptor liked to keep sharp tools in the studio and blunt ones in his pocket—his niece recalled finding him absentmindedly whittling a stick while talking philosophy.