Description of the painting by Camille Corot’s “Bathing Diana”

Description of the painting by Camille Corots Bathing Diana

When writing one of his latest works, Jean Baptiste Corot used one of the most popular images of ancient Roman mythology. Diana is the patroness of hunting, forests, the world of animals and plants. Leaving companions, she decided to swim under the canopy of trees. At this moment she is not interested in talking. The goddess wants to be alone with herself and forest coolness. The world around her reciprocates her: petals and even the rays of the sun are drawn to her.

Working on Diana, the artist adheres to the traditions of classicism. This is indicated not only by the plot, but also by the composition of the picture. It is balanced, and objects do not cause discomfort. Female nude fits the ideals of a beautiful era. Cloth echoes the work of Watteau, who portrayed the goddess at the stream. Unlike her, Diana Jean Baptiste Corot has no weapons (bow or spear). She is not going to hunt. This technique makes her feminine and very similar to ordinary girls.

In the picture, the author prefers several basic colors: shades of yellow, cinnamon and green. It would be possible to reproach Koro with excessive love for warm colors, if not for a piece of blue sky over Diana’s head. Very characteristic and interesting detail that gives freshness to the plot. So we understand that the water in the forest is cold and not every young girl dares to swim in it.

Particularly noteworthy is the lighting in the picture Corot. The sun is behind the heroine. What illuminates her figure? It can be assumed that the reservoir is large and the light is reflected from its surface. On the other hand, we are not a man, but a goddess.


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Description of the painting by Camille Corot’s “Bathing Diana”