The Source of the Loue River 1864

Gustave Courbet's 1864 painting, "The Source of the Loue River", depicts a dark cave opening into a river, with a small figure pointing towards the source of the river. The stark contrast between the light, rocky cliff and the dark, mysterious interior of the cave creates a sense of drama and intrigue. This painting is an example of Courbet's realism, emphasizing the natural world in a realistic manner. The work's subject matter explores the relationship between humanity and nature, and the mysteries of the natural world.