Nymphs and Satyr (1873)
by William-Adolphe Bouguereau
French, 1825-1905
William-Adolphe Bouguereau was a French academic painter known for his realistic genre paintings and modern interpretations of classical subjects, particularly emphasizing the female human body.
“Nymphs and Satyr” depicts a group of nymphs who have surprised a satyr while bathing in a secluded pond. The nymphs, embodying both innocence and mischief, attempt to pull the reluctant satyr into the water. This scene is based on Greek mythology and captures a moment of playful yet seductive interaction between the creatures of the forest and the mythical satyr.
The composition is classical, with Bouguereau’s use of interconnected poses and careful sketches contributing to the painting’s rhythmic and realistic effect. The painting was exhibited at the Paris Salon of 1873 and was accompanied by a verse from the Roman poet Publius Statius, which emphasizes the satyr’s hesitation to enter the water due to his inability to swim.
Matte Poster
• Printed with Dye/Pigment Reactive Ink on Archival Matte Paper
• Shipped in Heavy Duty Poster Tube
• Heavy weight (210 gsm), thick base, and an instant-dry coating that resists fingerprints and smudging