The Four Times of Day c. 1640

"The Four Times of Day" is a series of four prints by Charles Le Brun, a prominent French artist of the 17th century, created circa 1640. The series depicts four scenes representing the different times of day: Aurora (dawn), Meridies (noon), Vesper (evening), and Nox (night). Each scene features a mythological figure associated with the time of day, creating a visual allegory of the passing hours. The prints are characterized by Le Brun's meticulous detail, strong composition, and dramatic use of light and shadow.