The Death of Adonis
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JPEG imageItem Type:
ImageDate:
2001Citation:
Nicola Figgis and Brendan Rooney, 'Irish Paintings in the National Gallery of Ireland', Vol 1, p 73-5, no. NGI1393Download Item:
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Nicola Figgis, Brendan Rooney, and the National Gallery of IrelandDescription:
This painting 'forms a complete contrast with Barry's 'Temptation of Adam' (cgjc0762), exhibited four years earlier at the RA, in which the life-size figures dominate the landscape. In this later painting the smaller figures, shown in the middle foreground of a dark woodland scene, are completely in proportion with their surroundings, illuminated from behind by golden light from the setting sun. The untamed landscape is reminiscent of the work of Salvator Rosa, whom Barry greatly admired. The painting was considered unusual when it was first exhibited. In his choice of Titianesque colour Barry also shows the influence of Burke's theories, which proposed that autumnal colours should be used to reinforce a sense of sublime sorrow.' (NGI, 73-5)Role:
artistCulture:
IrishDimensions/Extent:
101.4 cm x 127.2 cmMaterial (Support):
canvasWork:
paintingRole:
artistPublisher:
Nicola Figgis, Brendan Rooney, and the National Gallery of IrelandType of material:
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Full text availablePeriod:
18th centuryMetadata
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