Scene
Three young shepherds and a dignified woman are gathered around an austere stone tomb in a serene Arcadian valley.
The Arcadian Shepherds (second version)
Nicolas Poussin
1637
Figures
The four figures are posed in deliberate attitudes of contemplation around the tomb, dressed in classical robes.
Symbolism
The tomb bears the Latin inscription "Et in Arcadia ego," suggesting that death exists even in paradise.
Craft
The artist used statuesque poses and a hard, cold aesthetic to create a sense of static contemplation.
Impact
This work is considered one of the most important paintings in Western art history.
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Tags
Craft
