Pallas Athena and the Herdsman's Dogs

Briton Riviere

Created:
Movement:
1876
Realism
key Notes:
Mythological encounter, Classical realism
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Dimensions:
44 1/8 x 70 1/8 in. (112.1 x 178.1 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

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Pallas Athena and the Herdsman's Dogs by Briton Rivière

Pallas Athena and the Herdsman's Dogs, painted in 1876 by Briton Rivière, is an exemplary work of the artist's skill in depicting mythological themes with a naturalistic approach. Rivière, a British artist renowned for his animal paintings, often infused his works with narrative depth and emotional resonance. This particular painting showcases his ability to blend classical mythology with a realistic portrayal of animals, a hallmark of his oeuvre. The use of oil on canvas allows for a rich texture and depth, enhancing the dramatic interplay between the divine figure of Athena and the earthly presence of the dogs. Rivière's work contributed to the Victorian fascination with classical subjects, reflecting the era's interest in both mythology and the natural world. His paintings remain significant for their technical proficiency and their ability to convey complex narratives through the interaction of human and animal figures.

Description of the work:

Pallas Athena and the Herdsman's Dogs by Briton Rivière

Created in 1876, Briton Rivière's "Pallas Athena and the Herdsman's Dogs" is an oil on canvas painting that exemplifies the artist's skill in depicting mythological themes with a naturalistic style. The artwork portrays the Greek goddess Athena in a serene landscape, surrounded by attentive dogs, highlighting Rivière's attention to detail and his ability to convey narrative through animal subjects.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Pallas Athena and the Herdsman's Dogs