The artwork titled “The Dream Haunting the Mogul” was created by Gustave Moreau around the year 1881. Rendered in watercolor, this piece belongs to the Symbolism art movement and falls under the genre of genre painting. Currently, it resides in a private collection.
In the artwork, Moreau depicts an opulent scene featuring a regal figure, often referred to as a mogul, seated in an ornate interior that exudes luxury. The mogul, robed in richly detailed garments and a turban, appears deep in thought or sleep, immersed in contemplation or perhaps a dream. Surrounding the mogul is a plethora of exquisite decorative elements, including vibrant textiles, intricate architectural details, and lavish furniture. Through a window, a moonlit landscape featuring towering spires and a serene night sky is visible, adding an ethereal quality to the scene. Above, ethereal beings or visions appear suspended in golden orbs, enhancing the mystical and dreamlike atmosphere of the composition. This meticulous attention to detail and the interplay between reality and fantasy are hallmarks of Moreau’s symbolist approach.
