The Death of Sappho
1872
Gustave Moreau gives us a moody, romanticized finale for the ancient poet Sappho, who legend says leapt from a cliff for unrequited love. She lies on the rocky shore in exotic, jewel-encrusted robes that look more like a fantasy costume than historical Greek attire, with her lyre resting beside her. A white bird hovers tenderly over her face, perhaps capturing her soul as it takes flight against a dramatic, stormy sky. This is classic Symbolism—Moreau cared far more about evoking a dreamlike mystery than getting the history books right.
- Technique
- Oil on canvas
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