The Allegory of the Sorbonne
The Met
Artist: Pierre Puvis de Chavannes(French, Lyons 1824–1898 Paris)
Date: 1889
Department: European Paintings
Classification: Paintings
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 32 5/8 x 180 1/4 in. (82.9 x 457.8 cm)
Credit Line: H. O. Havemeyer Collection, Bequest of Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer, 1929
Visual Descriptions
AI GeneratedVisual Summary
Brief Description
A wide scene shows numerous figures, some nude or draped, in a wooded landscape clearing
Detailed Description
A wide, horizontal scene depicts a large group of figures in a natural, wooded setting. It is set in a clearing with trees forming a dense background, and a low wall or fence visible behind the trees in the distance. The ground is covered in green grass and some patches of brown earth or rocks. From left to right, several groups of figures are arranged. On the far left, a group of figures is gathered around a structure made of large, light-colored stone blocks. Some figures are seated on or near these blocks, while others stand. One figure in dark clothing is positioned near the stones, appearing to manipulate them. Another figure in blue overalls stands to the right of this group, looking towards the center. Moving right, a series of figures, many draped in flowing garments of various colors including red-orange, blue, white, and brown, are engaged in different activities. Some are standing with arms raised, others are seated or kneeling. A central group features a seated woman in dark blue robes, with two small, nude children beside her. She is surrounded by other figures, some partially clothed, some nude, in various poses of interaction. One figure in a dark brown robe kneels in the foreground, positioned near a small, light-colored animal, possibly a deer or lamb, which lies on the ground. Another animal, possibly a dog, is also visible near this figure. Further to the right, more groups of figures are depicted. Some are standing, some are seated on the ground or on low rocks. Many are partially nude or draped in simple cloths. Colors include pale pinks, blues, and whites for the drapery. In the far right section, figures are gathered around what appears to be a small structure, possibly an altar, with some figures looking upwards or gesturing. The background throughout the scene consists of a dense line of trees with dark green foliage, under a muted, light-colored sky. The overall color palette is subdued, with earthy tones and soft pastels for the figures' clothing.
Generated by gemini-2.5-flash
