The Song of Ophelia (Act IV, Scene V)

"The Song of Ophelia (Act IV, Scene V)" by Eugène Delacroix, executed in 1834, is a powerful example of the French Romantic movement’s deep fascination with literary tragedy and psychological intensity. This work, classified as a Portfolio piece, is rendered using the innovative reproductive technique of lithograph. Delacroix’s choice of this print medium allowed for broad distribution and enhanced the dramatic, atmospheric qualities essential to the Romantic aesthetic prevalent during the period of 1826 to 1850.

Delacroix, a foundational figure in French art history, frequently drew inspiration from dramatic literary sources, finding particular resonance in Shakespeare’s Hamlet. The Song of Ophelia depicts the tragic figure immediately prior to her death, capturing the pathos of her descent into madness as she sings her mournful final songs. Unlike earlier depictions that focused purely on the aesthetic of nature, Delacroix emphasizes the psychological turmoil and expressive grief of the character. The loose, gestural handling of the lithographic crayon conveys the emotional immediacy characteristic of the artist's mature style. This dramatic approach cemented his reputation as the leader of the Romantic school in Paris.

As a lithograph, this specific print represents Delacroix’s sustained exploration into graphic media, providing an intimate contrast to his famous large-scale oil compositions. The popularity of the subject matter ensured that these prints circulated widely, helping to define the visual representation of Ophelia for the 19th century. This important French work is housed in the prestigious collection of the National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C. Given the age of the artist and the date of the work, high-quality images of this master print are often made available through public domain initiatives, ensuring continued scholarly access to Delacroix’s influential graphic output.