Description
In "Semiramis building Babylon" of 1861, Edgar Degas offers an intriguing vision of the historic figure of Semiramis, legendary queen of Assyria, through a representation that challenges the conventions of his time. This painting, Although less known than his most iconic dancers and scenes of everyday life, he reveals a fascinating aspect of the artistic versatility of Degas and his ability to address varied issues. The work is formed by a vibrant deployment of colors and an obvious dynamism in its composition, which seems to capture the immediacy of the moment.
The central figure of Semiramis is represented in a majestic way, with a bearing that infuses power and determination. She positions himself in a high plane, observing and supervising the construction that occurs around her. His clothing, rich in textures and nuances, reflects a mixture of the antiquity and conventions of his time, with a color use that highlights his figure among the earthly tones that predominate in the work environment. Degas uses a palette of warm and soft colors, predominantly the brown and ocher, which create an atmosphere of human effort and collaboration. This use of color not only contributes to the general hue of the work, but also establishes a contrast to the main figure, which stands out through more vibrant tones.
Throughout the composition, you can see the interaction between the central character and the workers, who seem to be immersed in their work. Although there is no particular attention to the individual faces of these characters, their collective presence suggests a narrative of effort and dedication to a monumental objective. The construction of the city of Babylon, one of the greatest tales of antiquity, transcends the simple building act; It symbolizes human ambition and the desire for transcendence. Degas, in its representation, infuses a sense of movement and effort, capturing the essence of collective work.
One of the most notable technical aspects of the work is the use of chiaroscuro, which adds depth and volume to the figures represented. The shadows give the impression of complexity to space, which suggests not only the physical presence of the characters, but also the emotional burden and the history of a monumental project. The light that falls on Semiramis seems to highlight its figure as a symbol of leadership and vision, contrasting with the industriousness of the background.
The choice of a historical theme, combined with an almost theatrical approach in the composition, highlights Degas's ability to not only capture the human figure in motion, which is characteristic of his career, but also to tell a broader story. This type of visual narrative can remind other works of contemporary artists to Degas who explored mythological or historical themes, but their approach to "Semiramis building Babylon" is particularly unique in its level of dynamism and collective feeling.
Through "Semiramis building Babylon", Degas achieves more than simply representing an episode of the past; Create a bridge between the human and the monumental, highlighting the tension between personal ambition and collective action. This work is a testimony of its mastery not only in the use of color and form, but also in the evocation of history through art. The painting invites the viewer to contemplate the role of the individual within the great framework of the story, emphasizing the idea that even the greatest dreams require the joint effort of many.
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