Columns of the Temple of Neptune at Paestum
The Met
Artist: Constantin Hansen(Danish, Rome 1804–1880 Frederiksberg)
Date: 1838
Department: European Paintings
Classification: Paintings
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 12 5/8 x 10 in. (32.1 x 25.4 cm)
Credit Line: Gift of Eugene V. Thaw, 2007
Visual Descriptions
AI GeneratedVisual Summary
Brief Description
Ancient stone ruins frame a distant landscape with mountains and a classical building
Detailed Description
A view through the weathered remains of an ancient stone structure is depicted. In the foreground, a massive, dark brown, crumbling stone wall occupies the left side, featuring a rectangular opening. To its right, two tall, fluted, light brown stone columns rise, casting long, dark shadows to their right. A third, partially obscured column or block of stone is visible on the far right. Across the top, a heavy, light brown stone entablature, composed of horizontal blocks, rests upon the columns and the left wall. The immediate ground is a mix of dark earth and patches of green and brown grass, an overgrown area within the ruins. Beyond the columns, a sunlit, expansive landscape stretches into the distance. This midground features fields of yellow-brown grass, dotted with scattered green bushes and trees. Further back, a light-colored, classical-style building with visible columns stands amidst greenery. In the far background, a range of light blue-grey mountains extends across the horizon beneath a clear, bright blue sky. Strong sunlight illuminates the scene from the left, creating deep shadows on the right sides of the columns and the left structure. The ruins and landscape are rendered in earthy browns and yellows, contrasting with the vibrant blue sky and subtle mountain hues. Faint initials, possibly 'F. C. S.', are visible in the bottom right corner.
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