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TheSpirit of BELVOIR
The still life composition contrasts the solidity of ‘The Three Graces’ sculpture and the part design of the
Don Quixote Tapestry that hangs behind.
The picture is contemporised by colour borders on the left and right sides which form an inner visual
space. The base of the sculpture is not included, thereby seemingly animating the female figures as they
seem to be within a setting of colour and pattern.
The Don Quixote Tapestry series of 28 different subjects was given as a gift by Louis XVI to Compte de
Saint– Florentin Marquis de la Vrilliere in 1770. The 5th Duke acquired part of the eighth tapestry series
in Paris in 1814, designed by Charles Antoine Coypel for the Gobelin Paris workshop during
{ 1714 –1734}.
The painting explores the contrast of surfaces and the juxtaposition the two narratives of myth and
fanciful tale. Equally, the composition considers the relationship of form and colour space by limiting the
tapestry to an element; thereby abstracting the background .
‘The Three Graces’ after Antonia Canora’s Neo classical sculpture depicts the mythological Three
Charities and daughters of Zeus. Euphrosyne {mirth} - Aglaea {elegance} and Thalia {youth and beauty}.
‘The Three Graces. The Regency Gallery’
Canvas: 48x48 inches
