Bacchus 1887

"Bacchus" is an 1887 etching by Ernest Meissonier, a prominent French painter and printmaker known for his meticulous detail and historical scenes. The etching depicts the Roman god Bacchus, associated with wine and revelry, sitting atop a barrel, a playful and charming representation of the deity. The work's refined detail and elegant composition are characteristic of Meissonier's style, making it a prized example of his artistic mastery in both painting and printmaking. This etching, now residing in the Art Institute of Chicago, showcases Meissonier's ability to translate the traditional subject of Bacchus into a captivating and intimate visual experience.