Description
The painting "Cornelia Refuses the Crown of the Ptolomai" by the French artist Laurent De La Hyre is a masterpiece of Baroque art of the 17th century. The painting depicts Cornelia, the mother of the Gracchi, refusing the crown offered by King Ptolemy of Egypt.
De La Hyre's artistic style is classical, with meticulous attention to detail and refined painting technique. The composition is balanced and symmetrical, with Cornelia at the center of the painting and surrounded by the figures of Ptolemy's court. Colors are rich and vibrant, with warm tones of gold and red contrasting with cooler tones of blue and green.
The story behind the painting is interesting. The painting was commissioned by Cardinal Richelieu, who acquired it for his personal collection. The painting then passed through several hands before being acquired by the Louvre Museum in Paris.
A little known aspect of the painting is that De La Hyre included a self-portrait in the work. The artist can be seen in the lower right corner of the painting, looking towards the viewer.
In short, "Cornelia Refuses the Crown of the Ptolomai" is a stunning work of Baroque art showcasing Laurent De La Hyre's technical skill and attention to detail. The balanced composition, the vibrant colors and the story behind the painting make this work a unique and fascinating piece of 17th century art.