Calliope Mourning Homer

Calliope Mourning Homer by Jacques-Louis David

Calliope Mourning Homer, painted by Jacques-Louis David in 1817, is an exemplary work of Neoclassical art, utilizing oil on canvas to convey its narrative. The painting depicts Calliope, the muse of epic poetry, mourning the ancient Greek poet Homer, reflecting David's continued engagement with classical themes and figures. This work is significant as it marks a period in David's career when he was in exile in Brussels, following his association with the French Revolution and Napoleon Bonaparte. David's mastery of form and composition is evident in the painting's balanced structure and the emotive portrayal of Calliope. As a leading figure of Neoclassicism, David's influence extended beyond his lifetime, shaping the trajectory of European art in the 19th century. His works, including this painting, continue to be studied for their historical context and artistic innovation.

"Calliope Mourning Homer" by Jacques-Louis David, created in 1817, is an oil on canvas painting that exemplifies the Neoclassical style, characterized by its clarity of form and sober colors. The artwork depicts Calliope, the muse of epic poetry, lamenting the death of the ancient Greek poet Homer, and it is housed in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts in Leipzig, Germany.