Diana Bathing with the Nymphs

Oil on canvas

92 x 72 cm.
Framed 109 x 91 cm.

The scene, set in an outdoor mythological setting characterised by a soft, theatrical atmosphere typical of the 17th-century French school, depicts Diana, the goddess of the hunt, easily recognisable by the crescent moon on her head, naked and partially covered by a blue cloak draped over her legs.

The goddess, seated at the centre of the composition, is surrounded by handmaidens and nymphs who are assisting her whilst she bathes; they too are all naked, having just returned from a hunting expedition, as indicated by the bows and quivers lying nearby; one of them, on the left, is kneeling as she helps her remove her sandals, whilst another, on the opposite side, hands her a basket brimming with fruit and flowers.

Although differing in certain respects (most notably, in the original the figures are clothed), the work is derived from a composition by Antoine Coypel (Paris 1661–1722) held at the Musée Départemental des Vosges in Épinal, France (fig. 1 - https://www.pubhist.com/w74885 ), which was already celebrated in its day thanks to engravers such as Pieter van den Berge (1694–1737), who contributed to its widespread circulation (Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, fig. 2 – https://id.rijksmuseum.nl/200395096 ).

This work, *Le Repos de Diane*, intended primarily for the enjoyment of collectors who favoured this subject to adorn their rooms, enjoyed great success from the time of the original in 1695, as evidenced by the numerous contemporary copies; amongst these is our own, the work of a talented painter from Coypel’s circle.

Given his position as director of the Académie Royale and “First Painter to the Duke of Orléans”, Coypel exerted an enormous influence on a generation of early 18th-century French painters, who studied his great decorative cycles such as the Gallery of Aeneas at the Palais-Royal in Paris.

This painting, of excellent quality, reproduces the carefully studied composition, in which the measured postures of the nymphs in the foreground serve to direct the viewer’s gaze towards the central figure of Diana. The use of warm colours and the softness of the forms reflect the influence of Coypel’s style, renowned for his mastery in depicting elegant mythological scenes.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The work is complete with an attractive gilded frame and comes with a certificate of authenticity and a descriptive iconographic sheet.

We arrange and organise the transport of purchased works, both within Italy and abroad, using professional and insured carriers.

You can also view the painting at our gallery in Riva del Garda; we would be delighted to welcome you and show you our collection of artworks.

Please feel free to contact us, with no obligation, for any further information.

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