Ariel riding on a Bat
1843
oil
From the collection of Ashmolean Museum
1843
oil
From the collection of Ashmolean Museum
Ariel riding on a Bat is a 1843 oil by Joseph Severn, held at Ashmolean Museum.
This painting depicts a nude figure riding on the back of a bat. The figure is positioned with their right leg bent and their left leg extended, while their right arm is raised above their head and their left arm is bent at the elbow. The bat's wings are spread wide, and its body is facing to the right. The background of the painting is dark and shadowy, with hints of brown and black. The painting's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and dimensionality, drawing the viewer's eye to the central figure. The artist's use of light and shadow adds a sense of drama and tension to the scene. The painting is held at the Ashmolean Museum.
