The Fountains

Hubert Robert

Created:
Movement:
1787/88
Neoclassicism
key Notes:
Architectural Ruins, Water Features
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Dimensions:
255.3 × 221.2 cm (100 1/2 × 88 1/8 in.); Framed: 265.5 × 233.4 cm (104 1/2 × 91 7/8 in.)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"The Fountains" is a painting by Hubert Robert, a prominent French painter known for his depictions of ruins and landscapes. The work exemplifies Robert's interest in the interplay between nature and architecture, showcasing his ability to blend classical elements with a romanticized vision of the past. The painting likely reflects the 18th-century fascination with the picturesque and the sublime, common in the works of the period. Robert often incorporated elements of water, such as fountains, to evoke tranquility and harmony within his compositions. The exact date of creation for "The Fountains" remains uncertain, but it is consistent with Robert's oeuvre from the late 18th century. The painting is characterized by its vibrant colors and dynamic composition, which invite viewers to engage with the serene environment depicted. Hubert Robert's works were influential in shaping the aesthetic of landscape painting in France, and "The Fountains" contributes to his legacy as a master of integrating architectural and natural elements.

Description of the work:

"The Fountains" by Hubert Robert is an oil on canvas painting that exemplifies the artist's mastery of landscape and architectural elements. The composition features a harmonious arrangement of classical ruins and lush greenery, creating a serene and idyllic atmosphere. The use of light and shadow is skillfully executed, enhancing the three-dimensionality of the structures and the natural surroundings. The palette is characterized by soft earth tones and vibrant greens, contributing to the overall sense of tranquility. Water is a central motif, depicted in the form of fountains that serve as focal points within the landscape. The figures in the scene are rendered with a sense of scale, interacting with the environment and emphasizing the grandeur of the architecture. The painting reflects Robert's interest in the picturesque, blending nature and human-made structures in a cohesive manner. The meticulous attention to detail in both the foliage and the architectural elements showcases Robert's technical proficiency and his ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia for classical antiquity.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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The Fountains