Who painted The Muse Terpsichore?

The Muse Terpsichore was painted by Augustin Pajou in 1768.

Where can I see The Muse Terpsichore?

The Muse Terpsichore is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Muse Terpsichore?

The Muse Terpsichore is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of The Muse Terpsichore?

Museum-quality prints of The Muse Terpsichore are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

The Muse Terpsichore

Augustin Pajou , 1768

The Muse Terpsichore is a chalk drawing by the Romanticist artist Augustin Pajou. It dates from 1768 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Augustin Pajou's drawing, The Muse Terpsichore, dates to circa 1768 and is executed in red chalk on laid paper. It depicts a female figure identified as the muse of dance and chorus, characterized by her calm yet confident demeanor.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Terpsichore, is represented holding a scroll and a trumpet, symbols of her association with music and poetry. She stands on a pedestal, wearing a draped, shoulder-baring robe, with her hair styled in an elevated coiffure.

Technique & Style

Pajou utilized red chalk to achieve a warm, soft tonal quality. The drawing features loose yet controlled lines, effectively conveying the folds of the fabric and the subtle movement of the figure.

History & Provenance

Limited provenance information is available for this specific work. Augustin Pajou, a French artist, created The Muse Terpsichore around 1768.

Context

This drawing reflects the Neoclassical interest in classical mythology and the arts, common during the late 18th century. Pajou's work aligns with the era's emphasis on elegance and classical themes.

Legacy

The Muse Terpsichore contributes to Pajou's broader oeuvre, illustrating his skill in capturing the essence of mythological figures through nuanced, expressive drawings.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Augustin Pajou

Augustin Pajou (French pronunciation: ; 19 September 1730 – 8 May 1809) was a French sculptor, born in Paris. At eighteen he won the Prix de Rome, and at thirty exhibited his Pluton tenant Cerbère enchaîné (now in the Louvre).