Artwork

Diana and Her Nymphs Asleep, Spied Upon by Satyrs

Diana and Her Nymphs Asleep, Spied Upon by Satyrs, by Jan Brueghel, the elder, oil, 1620
Diana and Her Nymphs Asleep, Spied Upon by Satyrs, by Jan Brueghel, the elder, oil, 1620

Diana and Her Nymphs Asleep, Spied Upon by Satyrs is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Jan Brueghel, the elder. It dates from 1620 and is held in the collection of the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden.

About this work

Overview

Diana and Her Nymphs Asleep, Spied Upon by Satyrs is a 1620 painting on copper by Jan Brueghel the Elder, a prominent Flemish Baroque artist.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a serene scene of Diana and her nymphs resting in a forest, surrounded by sleeping animals, and being secretly observed by satyrs. The tranquil atmosphere is evoked through the use of natural surroundings and the relaxed postures of the figures.

Technique & Style

The work showcases Brueghel's skillful use of chiaroscuro, with strong contrasts between light and dark creating a sense of depth. Soft brushstrokes and a warm color palette of greens, browns, and tans contribute to the overall feeling of calmness.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jan Brueghel, the elder

Artist

Jan Brueghel, the elder

Jan Brueghel the Elder ( BROY-gəl, US also BROO-gəl; Dutch: ; 1568 – 13 January 1625) was a Flemish painter and draughtsman.