Poussin Et in Arcadia Ego
Artist: Nicolas Poussin (French b. 1594 d. 1665)
Date: c. 1650
Dimensions: 73 x 47.5”
Medium: oil on canvas
Current location: Louvre, Paris
Period: Baroque
Genre: history painting

Quick Notes:
  • The painting is often referred to as The Arcadian Shepherds.
  • This is the second version of this subject painted by Poussin. The first version dates from
    1629-30 and is located at Chatsworth, Devonshire Collection.
  • The Latin title of the painting means “I too dwell in Arcadia.” But who is the “I” referring
    to? Is it the dead person buried in the tomb? Or does “I” refer to death; i.e. even in
    beautiful Arcadia death is present.
  • Poussin was highly influenced by ancient Roman art. He based the figures in this painting
    on Roman art, especially the female figure on the right.

Suggested Compare-Contrast Target:
  • Caravaggio, The Entombment


Writing Prompts:
  • What is the message of this painting? How do you go about deciphering it?
  • Describe Poussin's style as seen in this piece. Is it typically Baroque or something else?

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