Description
The painting "Semiramis Building a City" by Edgar Degas is a masterpiece that has captivated art lovers since its creation in 1861. This work depicts the legendary queen Semiramis, who, according to Assyrian mythology, built the city of Babylon.
Degas' artistic style is characterized by his ability to capture everyday life and the beauty of nature. In this work, we can appreciate his impressionist technique, which is characterized by the use of loose brushstrokes and the mixture of colors to create a sensation of movement and light.
The composition of the painting is impressive, as Degas manages to create a sense of depth and perspective. The figure of Semiramis is in the center of the work, surrounded by workers who build the city. The queen stands in an elevated position, giving her an air of authority and power.
Color is another outstanding aspect of this work. Degas uses a palette of warm and vibrant colors, which contrast with the darker tones of the workers' clothing. The blue sky and white clouds create an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity.
The story behind the painting is fascinating. Degas was inspired by the work "Semiramis Queen of Babylon" by the French painter Charles Gleyre, who was his teacher. Degas decided to create his own version of the work, but instead of depicting Semiramis as a mythological figure, he portrayed her as a real and powerful woman.
In addition, there is a little known aspect of this work that is interesting to mention. Degas originally painted Semiramis nude, but later decided to cover her body in a dress. It is believed that this decision was influenced by the morality of the Victorian era, which did not allow the representation of the nude female figure in art.