The artwork “Oedipus Bids Farewell to Jocasta (study)” by Alexandre Cabanel, created in 1843, is an oil painting on canvas. With dimensions of 33 by 41 cm, this piece belongs to the Academicism art movement and is categorized as a mythological painting.
In this artwork, Alexandre Cabanel depicts a dramatic and emotional scene deeply rooted in Greek mythology. Oedipus, a central figure in the myth, is shown in an intense moment of farewell to Jocasta. Various characters, each displaying raw emotion, surround the central figures, emphasizing the gravity of the scene. The architectural elements in the background suggest a significant and imposing setting, enhancing the classical aesthetic typical of Academicism. The vibrant use of color and expressive gestures captures the viewer’s attention, drawing them into the tragic narrative being portrayed.