Ovid among the Scythians

"Ovid among the Scythians" is a powerful oil on paper, laid down on wood, created by Eugène Delacroix in 1862. This late work revisits the poignant classical theme of the Roman poet Ovid's banishment by Emperor Augustus to the remote Black Sea frontier settlement of Tomis. The painting captures the moment of uneasy, yet peaceful, coexistence between the sophisticated poet and the rough, nomadic Scythian tribes who inhabit the desolate region.

Delacroix employs his signature Romantic style, utilizing vibrant colors and rapid, expressive brushwork characteristic of his later period. The technique, though executed on a small scale, maintains the scale and vibrancy typically associated with larger compositions. The scene features Ovid, identifiable by his somewhat pensive demeanor, surrounded by several Scythian women and men. The presence of sturdy horses and watchful dogs grounds the composition in the reality of nomadic life, emphasizing the distance between Ovid’s previous imperial world and his new, rugged environment.

This piece highlights Delacroix's lifelong fascination with subjects involving exile, cultural encounters, and dramatic historical narratives. The technique reflects the immediacy often found in preparatory studies, yet it achieves a profound emotional depth. The painting is part of the esteemed collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. As a major work from the conclusion of the artist's career, this canvas remains a significant example of French Romantic painting, and due to its prominence, high-quality prints derived from the museum’s photography are widely accessible through public domain art initiatives.