Orpheus and Eurydice 1800 - 1830

drawing, lithograph, print, paper

pencil drawn

photo of handprinted image

drawing

light pencil work

lithograph

print

pencil sketch

strong focal point

charcoal drawing

paper

pencil drawing

white focal point

france

tonal art

remaining negative space

This black and white lithograph by Louis Hersent depicts the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, created between 1800 and 1830. Eurydice leans in to kiss Orpheus, her hand covering his eye. Orpheus is seated on a rocky outcropping, his lyre resting on the ground beside him. The composition is framed by trees and foliage, symbolizing the natural world and the journey through the underworld. This print is part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection.