Description
Washington Allston's painting Uriel Standing in the Sun is a masterpiece of the 19th century Romantic style. The composition of the painting is impressive, with an angel named Uriel at the center of the image, surrounded by a dramatic and colorful landscape. The artist manages to capture the force of nature and the majesty of the divine being in a single image.
The use of color is another interesting aspect of this painting. Allston uses a vibrant color palette to create a stunning light and shadow effect. The golden and orange hues of the sun create an atmosphere of warmth and energy, while the blues and greens of the landscape evoke a sense of calm and serenity.
The story behind the painting is also fascinating. Allston began work on this work in 1817, but did not complete it until 1833, shortly before his death. The painting was commissioned by the poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge, who wanted an image of Uriel, the angel of the sun, to accompany a poem he was writing.
A little known aspect of this painting is that Allston used his own figure as a model for the angel Uriel. This allowed him to capture the essence of the character in a more personal and authentic way. Furthermore, the painting has been the subject of various interpretations and analyses, making it a fascinating and complex work of art.
In short, Washington Allston's painting Uriel Standing in the Sun is a masterpiece of the 19th century Romantic style. Its composition, use of color and the story behind the work make it a fascinating and impressive painting.