The artwork “Narcissus and Echo,” created by Nicolas Poussin in 1650, is a splendid exemplar of the Classicism art movement. Employing oil on canvas, this mythological painting measures 72 by 96.5 cm and is housed in the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister in Dresden, Germany. Poussin’s work is recognized for its formal harmony, clarity, and disciplined use of color, characteristics that are evident in this portrayal of the ancient narrative.
The artwork arrayed before us presents a mythological scene steeped in somber tones and classical ideals. At the forefront, we glimpse the figure of Narcissus, depicted as a young man with an athletic build, reclining by a body of water. His eyes are locked onto his own reflection with an intense gaze that symbolizes his deep infatuation. Echo, shown as a forlorn young woman, appears to be emerging from the wilderness, moving towards Narcissus. Her expression is one of longing and despair, knowing her love is unrequited as she is condemned to repeat only the last words spoken to her. The setting is one of natural wilderness, adorned by the soft fading light of dusk and the dense foliage of the trees.
An attentive dog appears beside Narcissus, while another human figure—perhaps a representation of Echo’s own neglected suitor—lies in repose with draped vibrant red fabric accentuating his form. Through the precise arrangement of these figures and the serene yet tragic atmosphere, Poussin captures the essence of the tragic myth, emphasizing the themes of love, rejection, and the destructive nature of vanity.
