The artwork titled “Leda and the Swan” was created by artist Paul Cezanne around 1882. This oil on canvas piece is a fine example of the Post-Impressionist movement, measuring 59.7 by 74.9 cm. It is a mythological painting that is presently housed at the Barnes Foundation located in Philadelphia, PA, United States.
The artwork depicts the mythological story of Leda and the Swan, drawn from ancient Greek mythology. Leda is shown reclining nude, with a swan situated next to her, its neck reaching towards her hand, suggesting an interaction between the figures. The use of vigorous brushstrokes and bold colors is characteristic of Cezanne’s style, which often sought to reconstruct scenes in simplified forms that convey the artist’s emotional response to the subject rather than a realistic representation. The myth of Leda and the Swan typically symbolizes the power of Zeus, who, according to the myth, transformed into a swan to seduce or rape Leda. Through this artwork, Cezanne explores the timeless themes of beauty and sensuality intertwined with power and transformation.
