Neptun’s Pool in Versailles (circa 1866)

We are delighted to present Charles François Daubigny’s evocative painting, "Neptune’s Pool in Versailles," created around 1866. This masterful work exemplifies Daubigny's keen interest in capturing the tranquil essence of landscapes and water scenes, skills that mark him as a pivotal figure in the Barbizon School of painters.The painting portrays the serene atmosphere of Neptune’s Pool, a famous feature of the Gardens of Versailles. Daubigny's choice of perspective invites viewers to step into a moment of suspended calm, characterizing the early hours at this luxurious locale before the arrival of bustling crowds. The soft, fluid brushstrokes suggest the reflective quality of water, while the muted tones of green and gray in the background merge the majestic trees with the cloudy skies, amplifying a sense of unified tranquility.At the heart of the composition, the grandeur of Neptune’s Pool is highlighted through the dynamic sculpture of Neptune and his steeds, appearing as if emerging from the water. The magnificent sculpture serves as a focal point around which the rest of the landscape organically unfolds.This painting not only reflects Daubigny’s artistic mastery but also serves as a historical vignette, capturing the essence of French nobility’s leisure spaces in the 19th century.