Artwork
Cephalus and Procris
Cephalus and Procris is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Jean Raoux. It dates from 1711 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.
About this work
Overview
Cephalus and Procris is a 1711 oil painting by French artist Jean Raoux, exemplifying the Rococo style through its decorative and intimate depiction of a mythological scene.
Subject & Meaning
The painting illustrates a poignant moment from classical mythology, showing Cephalus and Procris in a tender, yet tragic, embrace. The scene conveys a sense of quiet intimacy, with the woman (likely Procris) reclining, her chest exposed and covered by a white cloth held by Cephalus, amidst a serene forest backdrop with a spear on the ground, hinting at the narrative's fatal outcome.
Technique & Style
Raoux employs warm colors and soft lighting to create a tranquil atmosphere, characteristic of Rococo. The contrast between the woman's white dress, the man's red shirt and blue pants, and the sunset-lit forest enhances the emotional depth of the intimate moment.
History & Provenance
Created in 1711, the painting is part of Jean Raoux's oeuvre focused on historical and allegorical themes. It is currently housed in the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.
Context
As a Rococo piece, Cephalus and Procris reflects the 18th-century French artistic inclination towards decorative, playful, and emotionally charged subjects, often drawn from mythology.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Jean Raoux (1677 – 10 February 1734), French painter, was born at Montpellier. After the usual course of training he became a member of the Academy in 1717 as an historical painter. His reputation had been previously…
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