Artwork

Androcles

Androcles, by Jean Léon Gérôme, oil, 1902
Androcles, by Jean Léon Gérôme, oil, 1902

Androcles is an oil painting by the Academic Art artist Jean Léon Gérôme. It dates from 1902 and is held in the collection of the National Museum of Fine Arts, Argentina.

About this work

This painting shows a woman in a blue dress, sitting on the ground next to a large lion.

This painting shows a woman in a blue dress, sitting on the ground next to a large lion. The woman is holding a crown in her hands, and the lion appears to be roaring. The background of the painting is dark, with some rocks and shadows visible.

The woman's dress is a light blue color, and her hair is dark. The lion's fur is a golden brown color, and its eyes are looking up towards the woman. The crown in the woman's hands is made of gold and has red jewels on it.

The painting is done in a realistic style, with a lot of detail and texture. It was painted by Jean Léon Gérôme in 1902. You can learn more about the artist's work by exploring Jean Léon Gérôme.

Overview

Androcles is a 1902 oil painting by Jean Léon Gérôme, held at the National Museum of Fine Arts Buenos Aires. It depicts a woman and a lion in a dramatic scene.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows a dark-haired woman in a light blue dress sitting beside a large, golden-brown lion. She holds a gold crown with red jewels, while the lion appears to roar. The scene is likely inspired by the ancient legend of Androcles, who befriended a lion after removing a thorn from its paw.

Technique & Style

The work is executed in a realistic style, characterized by detailed rendering and textured brushwork. Gérôme's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth, with the dark background and shadows contrasting with the figures in the foreground.

A lioness with her cubs near a dead black man called 'Nemesis'
A lioness with her cubs near a dead black man called 'Nemesis', John Macallan Swan

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jean Léon Gérôme

Artist

Jean Léon Gérôme

Jean-Léon Gérôme was a French painter and sculptor in the style now known as academicism.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Androcles?

Androcles was painted by Jean Léon Gérôme in 1902.

Where can I see Androcles?

Androcles is held by National Museum of Fine Arts, Argentina.

What movement is Androcles?

Androcles is associated with Academic Art.

Can I buy a print of Androcles?

Museum-quality prints of Androcles are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.