An artwork on Galleree from The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Oedipus and the SphinxGustave Moreau
French, Paris 1826–1898 Paris
1864
81 1/4 × 41 1/4 in. (206.4 × 104.8 cm)
Painting
Oil on canvas
European Paintings
Bequest of William H. Herriman, 1920
In Gustave Moreau's "Oedipus and the Sphinx," we enter a world of myth and enigma. The artwork captures a moment of tension between Oedipus, the heroic figure, and the Sphinx, a creature of mystery and danger.
Oedipus stands confidently, draped in flowing fabric that enhances his form, holding a staff that symbolizes his authority and fate. The Sphinx, with her striking wings and feline body, draws near, embodying both allure and threat. Her gaze is piercing, filled with a complex mixture of seduction and menace.
The background is rich with rocky cliffs and a moody sky, enhancing the drama of the scene. The colors blend harmoniously, showcasing Moreau’s mastery of light and shadow. The juxtaposition of Oedipus’s calm demeanor against the Sphinx’s intense presence creates a powerful visual dialogue.
This artwork invites viewers to ponder the depths of human experience—curiosity, danger, and the quest for knowledge. Oedipus’s encounter with the Sphinx is not just a battle of wits but a profound exploration of destiny and truth. In this moment frozen in time, we feel the weight of inevitable fate, urging us to reflect on our own journeys and the mysteries we face.
About the artist
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