Fine Art Poster
From $29
A giclée print on 200gsm matte fine art paper, using a twelve-colour process for accurate, fade-resistant colour. Supplied unframed, delivered flat or rolled.
Cephalus and Aurora - Nicolas Poussin
Regular price
$29.00 USD
Sale price
$29.00 USD
Regular price
Archival giclée
Frames arrive ready to hang
Secure checkout
Made to order
Description
A dramatic mythological scene by Nicolas Poussin, depicting the goddess Aurora abducting the hunter Cephalus in a display of Baroque light and shadow.
Nicolas Poussin, a central figure of the French Baroque, painted Cephalus and Aurora around 1630. The work draws from Ovid's Metamorphoses, depicting the moment Aurora, the goddess of the dawn, abducts the mortal hunter Cephalus. Poussin organises the composition with a clear division between the celestial realm of the goddess and the earthly reality of the hunter. Aurora is shown in motion, her form illuminated against the encroaching darkness, while Cephalus remains grounded, his posture reflecting his reluctance and confusion.
The painting demonstrates Poussin's interest in classical narrative and the calculated arrangement of figures. The colour palette relies on deep shadows and high-contrast lighting, a technique that directs the viewer's eye across the scene. The presence of putti and the chariot of the sun provides a sense of mythological scale, yet the focus remains on the human interaction between the two primary figures. Poussin employs a measured approach to the anatomy and drapery, reflecting his study of antique sculpture and the works of Titian. The background, though obscured by shadow, suggests the transition from night to day, a thematic element that mirrors the narrative of the dawn goddess.
This work is held in the collection of the National Gallery in London. It represents the artist's early Roman period, during which he refined his ability to combine classical themes with a dramatic, theatrical sensibility. The figures are arranged in a frieze-like manner, a hallmark of Poussin's style that prioritises clarity and intellectual order over purely decorative effects. The painting invites close inspection of the interplay between light and shadow, as well as the emotional tension conveyed through the gestures of the protagonists.
You might also like
Return policy
Because every print is made to order, we don't offer change-of-mind returns, refunds or exchanges. If your order arrives faulty, damaged or incorrect, we'll replace it free of charge — just contact us within 48 hours of delivery. See our refunds page for full details.
Shipping
We ship worldwide, printing at the production hub nearest to your delivery address. Delivery times and costs vary by destination — you'll see the options available to you at checkout.
Manufacturing
Each print is produced to order using 12-colour giclée printing on FSC-certified archival paper. Designed in Britain and printed at your nearest production hub to reduce waste and speed up delivery.
Care and materials
Specific Features
Every Solis piece is made to order with archival, gallery-quality materials built to last.
- Museum-grade giclée printing for rich, fade-resistant colour
- Archival matte fine-art paper, FSC-certified
- Multiple sizes and framing options available
- Frames in black, natural wood, dark wood or white
- Framed prints arrive ready to hang
Care & Cleaning
To keep your artwork looking its best:
- Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight
- Never use liquid cleaners on the print or canvas surface
- Keep in a dry, room-temperature space
- Handle prints with clean, dry hands
Materials & Sizing
Museum-grade giclée on FSC-certified archival matte paper, with framed and canvas options.
- Paper sizes: A4, A3, A2, A1, A0 and B2 (50×70 cm)
- Canvas: XS (20×30 cm) to Large (60×90 cm)
- Frames: black, natural wood, dark wood or white
Complete The Look
Cephalus and Aurora - Nicolas Poussin
Regular price
From $29.00 USD
Sale price
From $29.00 USD
Regular price
Fine Art Poster / A4 (21x29.7 cm) / -
Artist Biography
Nicolas Poussin
Nicolas Poussin, a towering figure of French Classicism, wasn't always destined for artistic greatness. Born near Les Andelys, Normandy, in 1594, his early life was marked by struggle and self-directed study. He resisted his family's expectations, running away to Paris to pursue his passion, a bold move that reveals the fierce determination underpinning his serene and intellectual compositions. It was this unwavering commitment, coupled with a deep study of classical antiquity and Renaissance masters, that shaped his distinctive style.
Poussin's artistic vision was rooted in order, reason, and harmony. Unlike the dramatic flair of the Baroque, Poussin sought clarity and balance in his paintings. His meticulously planned compositions, populated with figures inspired by ancient sculpture, evoke a sense of timelessness and moral virtue. Key works like "The Death of Germanicus" and "The Rape of the Sabine Women" exemplify his dedication to historical and mythological subjects, rendered with a controlled palette and precise draughtsmanship.
Although he spent a significant portion of his career in Rome, Poussin's influence on French art was profound. He became a touchstone for generations of artists seeking to emulate his intellectual approach and classical ideals. His legacy extends beyond individual paintings; it encompasses a philosophy of art that values intellect, order, and the pursuit of ideal beauty. Poussin died in Rome in 1665, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire awe and intellectual engagement.
Poussin's artistic vision was rooted in order, reason, and harmony. Unlike the dramatic flair of the Baroque, Poussin sought clarity and balance in his paintings. His meticulously planned compositions, populated with figures inspired by ancient sculpture, evoke a sense of timelessness and moral virtue. Key works like "The Death of Germanicus" and "The Rape of the Sabine Women" exemplify his dedication to historical and mythological subjects, rendered with a controlled palette and precise draughtsmanship.
Although he spent a significant portion of his career in Rome, Poussin's influence on French art was profound. He became a touchstone for generations of artists seeking to emulate his intellectual approach and classical ideals. His legacy extends beyond individual paintings; it encompasses a philosophy of art that values intellect, order, and the pursuit of ideal beauty. Poussin died in Rome in 1665, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire awe and intellectual engagement.
Made to order
Choose your finish
Every piece is printed to order. These are the five finishes, and what makes each one different.
Fine Art Framed
From $89
The same fine art print in a solid wood frame with UV-protective acrylic glaze and rigid backing. Five frame colours. Arrives ready to hang.
Why Choose Us ?
Damage-free delivery guarantee
Fast Shipping
Museum-Quality Materials
You May Also Like