Dionysian Frieze c. 1787 - 1790
jeanguillaumemoitte
minneapolisinstituteofart
drawing
drawing
natural stone pattern
abstract expressionism
abstract painting
possibly oil pastel
oil painting
tile art
fluid art
underpainting
france
painting painterly
watercolor
Jean-Guillaume Moitte's "Dionysian Frieze" (c. 1787-1790) is a delicate depiction of the Greek god Dionysus and his revelry. The frieze features figures engaged in dancing, music, and revelry, celebrating the god's association with wine, fertility, and ecstasy. Moitte's masterful use of delicate lines and shading brings the scene to life, capturing the spirit of the Dionysian celebration. This detailed, yet compact, work exemplifies the Neoclassical style that was prevalent in the late 18th century, drawing inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman art. The Minneapolis Institute of Art is fortunate to house this exquisite example of Moitte's artistry.
Comments
The French sculptor Jean-Guillaume Moitte spent two years in Rome, and this long, relief-like drawing reflects his study of ancient Roman art. In both format and subject it recalls a famous Roman wall painting, The Aldobrandini Wedding, dating from the time of Emperor Augustus and excavated in Rome in 1601. Represented here from left to right are the stages of a young woman’s initiation into carnal love. To the accompaniment of music, and led by a more knowing companion, she is carried by a faun toward the realm of lust. Then, startled and modestly covering her face and genitals, she is shown the phallus of a male herm. In the final scene, reclining now, she passionately kisses an aroused satyr.
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