The Corinthian Maid
1782-1784 National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.
About this artwork
An oil painting on canvas depicting a scene from ancient legend, capturing the moment a young woman traces the silhouette of her departing lover onto a wall. The scene is illuminated by a single light source, emphasizing the dramatic contrast characteristic of the artist's work.
Did you know?
According to the ancient Roman author Pliny the Elder, this moment marks the very origin of the art of painting. The Corinthian Maid, named Dibutades, was supposedly so saddened by her lover's upcoming departure for war that she drew his profile by candlelight to preserve his memory. This legend provided a popular subject for 18th-century artists to reflect on the relationship between art, love, and mortality.
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The Corinthian Maid
Joseph Wright, 1782-1784
