A Bacchanalian Revel before a Term
- Artist: Nicolas Poussin
- Date: 1632-3
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Museum: The National Gallery
- Collection record: The National Gallery website
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About this artwork
A Bacchanalian Revel before a Term painted in the 17th century by Nicolas Poussin, created around 1632. This painting is traditionally identified as Pan, god of woods and fields, although some art historians believe it could be Priapus, god of gardens and fertility.
The scene depicts a Bacchic festival, where partygoers enjoy excessive drinking and indulge in their sexual desires. The nymphs or frolicking female followers of the god Bacchus are accompanied by a lustful satyr, with horns and hairy, goat-like legs. The idealised bodies, rigid draperies, and careful arrangement of the dancers reflect Poussin's study of ancient sculpture.
The bold colours used in the painting contrast with the skin tones and woodland foliage. Notice how the dancer on the left squeezes juice from a bunch of grapes into a small dish held by a chubby child, while the woman on the right has fallen to the ground and stretches out her hand for help as she is drawn into the embrace of the satyr.
Poussin's use of classical motifs and compositions pays homage to his study of ancient art. The painting's solid appearance and careful composition are characteristic of Poussin's style, which was heavily influenced by the classical past.
See it in person
A Bacchanalian Revel before a Term hangs in The National Gallery on Trafalgar Square, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
