The artwork titled “Aurore,” created by Paul Delvaux in 1964, is an oil painting on canvas that falls within the Surrealist art movement. Measuring 122 x 244 cm, the artwork is categorized as a cityscape genre.
In “Aurore,” Delvaux captures a dreamlike nocturnal scene of an elongated cobblestone path that leads into a dense, dark forest. Securing the path are a series of evenly spaced gas lamps that cast a dim glow, providing a sense of direction and contrast against the deep blue night sky. The looming bare trees on either side of the path create an almost cathedral-like atmosphere, their gnarled branches intertwining overhead.
In the foreground, a reclining nude woman, with a calm and contemplative demeanor, is prominently positioned. Her presence introduces an element of surrealism and intrigue. Further down the path, two additional nude figures are depicted walking towards the distant horizon, adding layers of mystery and anticipation to the composition. The juxtaposition of the nude figures and the eerie, lamplit path renders a hauntingly beautiful tableau, emblematic of Delvaux’s signature style.
