Meeting of Orestes and Hermione , By Artist Anne Louis Girodet Trioson ( 1767 - 1824 )

" Meeting of Orestes and Hermione "  , By Artist Anne-Louis Girodet-Trioson

Painting by a pupil of Louis David, a French historical painter. Among the classicism that dominated French art at the time, he became the forerunner of romanticism, which quickly changed the course of the movement. The artist was drawn to the complicated theme of unrequited love and treachery shown in the tragedy "Andromache" by French playwright Jean Racine.

The narrative is based on the moment in which Cleon introduces Orestes to his crafty cousin Hermione. Clytemnestra orders her to influence Orestes and finally drive him mad.

Girodet-Trioson skilfully contrasts Orestes' passion and Hermione's sensible disposition. She turns away, her arms crossed across her chest, like a statue between the columns of the chilly marble chamber. Hermione's sneaky expression, on the other hand, forewarns the spectator of her devious tactics, which will ultimately lead to a disastrous conclusion.

 " Meeting of Orestes and Hermione " , by Artist Anne-Louis Girodet-Trioson , 1846 Oil on canvas. Cleveland Museum of Art