The artwork titled “The Nurture of Jupiter” is an oil painting on canvas created by the esteemed artist Nicolas Poussin between the years 1635 to 1637. It exemplifies the principles of Classicism, a movement known for its adherence to the traditional standards of clarity, harmony, and balance, inspired by the art and culture of ancient Greece and Rome. The painting, with dimensions of 96.2 by 119.6 centimeters, belongs to the mythological painting genre. It is housed at the Dulwich Picture Gallery in London, United Kingdom.
Depicted within the artwork is a serene and harmonious scene from classical mythology, portraying the nurturing of Jupiter, the Roman king of gods. The central focus is on the infant Jupiter, who is being fed by the goat Amalthea, serving as his foster mother according to myth. To the left, a satyr, possibly representing Pan, delicately holds the goat’s leg, assisting in the process of nourishment. The presence of additional satyrs further establishes the mythological context, one of whom is seen partially reclined on the rocky terrain, observing the nurturing act. A seated female figure donned in blue and a standing female figure wearing a golden-orange garment enhance the composition with their graceful postures and vibrant garments. They may represent nymphs, further tying the scene to the abundant and protective world of nature that the ancient gods often inhabited.
Amidst this intimate gathering, the landscape is idyllic and pastoral, with verdant trees and a calm, distant horizon, emphasizing the tranquility that often characterizes Poussin’s depictions of classical narratives. The artwork evokes a sense of timeless peace and the nurturing relationship between deity and the natural world, all the while showcasing Poussin’s meticulous craft and his adherence to classical compositional structures.
