Dante's Dream 1871

Dante Gabriel Rossetti painted "Dante's Dream" using oil on canvas, materials consistent with the fine art of his time. The deep, saturated colors and the smooth, almost enamel-like surface are a testament to Rossetti's careful application and blending of pigments. The weight and texture of the oil paint allow for a remarkable level of detail, from the intricate folds of the drapery to the delicate features of the figures. It’s important to remember that the making of oil paint at this time was labor-intensive, often involving apprentices grinding and mixing pigments by hand. Rossetti’s choice of oil paint allowed him to imbue the scene with a sense of richness and depth, enhancing the dreamlike quality of the subject matter. The very materiality of the painting, built up layer upon layer, contributes to its immersive effect. By attending to the materials and the making, we gain a richer understanding of the artwork, one that challenges the traditional hierarchy between art and craft.