“The Chimera,” a mythological painting by Gustave Moreau, created in 1867, is rendered in oil and embodies the Symbolism movement. The artwork, measuring 27.3 x 33 cm, is housed at the Fogg Museum (Harvard Art Museums) in Cambridge, MA, US.
The artwork depicts a fantastical scene in which a winged creature accompanies a nude female figure who clings to him ardently. The creature, embodying mythological elements, possesses tall, dark blue wings and the body of a horse, merging human and animal characteristics. The background consists of an expansive sky, painted in subtle yet dynamic shades of blue and white, suggesting both depth and movement. The scene appears to take place mid-air, with the figures ascending above a rocky precipice beneath them, enhancing the ethereal and otherworldly quality of the composition. The attention to detail in the figures and the vibrant use of color highlight Moreau’s masterful technique and the symbolic nature of his work. The painting exudes a sense of drama and mysticism, inviting viewers to delve into the rich tapestry of mythology and imagination that Moreau sought to portray.
