Artwork
Selene and Endymion
Selene and Endymion is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Nicolas Poussin. It dates from 1630 and is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts.
About this work
Overview
Selene and Endymion is a mythological oil painting by Nicolas Poussin, created in 1630. It is now held at the Detroit Institute of Arts.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a nighttime scene from mythology, featuring Endymion and Selene. A half-naked Endymion kneels on a rocky shore, surrounded by figures in flowing robes, with a winged horse and other airborne figures above.
Technique & Style
Poussin employed chiaroscuro, using light from above to make the figures stand out against the dark background. Smooth brushstrokes create a dreamy effect, with soft colors such as pale blues, yellows, and earthy tones blending together.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Nicolas Poussin (UK: , US: , French: ; June 1594 – 19 November 1665) was a leading painter of the classical French Baroque style, although he spent most of his working life in Rome.
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