Semiramis Building Babylon
- Original dimensions
- 258 x 151 cm
- Museum
- musée d'Orsay
- Year
- 1860
Scene depicted
Sémiramis, a legendary figure, is building the great city of Babylon, a symbol of the power and magnificence of ancient civilizations. The canvas captures the excitement, movement, and grandeur of this construction, placing the observer at the heart of the action. The carefully crafted details evoke the richness of a bygone era, transporting the viewer into the very heart of this vibrant historical scene.
Historical context
In 1860, in the heart of Paris, Edgar Degas offers us his majestic vision of Sémiramis construisant Babylone, an iconic painting inspired by Antiquity and legendary tales. This canvas is part of the impressionist movement, marking the transition to a new artistic sensitivity. Today, this work is located at the musée d'Orsay , where it continues to dazzle visitors with its brilliance and history.
Place in the artist's career
In the career of Edgar Degas , this canvas represents a stage of stylistic maturation. Situated between his compositions of dancers and his realistic portraits, Sémiramis construisant Babylone testifies to a momentum towards the exploration of more mythological themes. Two other canvases , Les Danseuses and La Classe de danse, illustrate this journey, the former focusing on grace, while the latter reinforces the idea of constant movement.
Anecdote
“Beauty lies in movement and emotion.” This quote could have been spoken by Edgar Degas one spring morning, as he was inspired by the whispers of the city. The creation of this masterpiece emerges from careful observation and a deep passion for capturing life. It is this unique moment that infused this painting with its vibrant and timeless character.