The artwork entitled “Sappho on the Rocks,” executed by Gustave Moreau using watercolor, dates from approximately 1869 to 1872. It belongs to the Symbolism art movement and is categorized under the genre of portraiture.
The composition depicts Sappho, the renowned poetess from ancient Greece, reclining on rocky terrain with an expression that blends contemplation and melancholy. Clad in intricately ornate attire with rich red hues and elaborate patterns, she is adorned with a floral crown. The vessel she holds suggests offerings or rituals, echoing her cultural significance. The backdrop features sheer cliffs descending into the sea, and a monumental column topped with a winged creature looms in the background. The seascape extends beyond, dotted with birds in flight, imparting an air of mystique and solitude. The amalgamation of detailed elements, the choice of symbolic iconography, and the ethereal quality of the watercolor medium convey a deep sense of reverie, aligning with the principles of the Symbolist movement.
