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Poussin

Nicolas Poussin (1594–1665) was a French painter who became a leading figure of the French classical school. He spent most of his career in Rome, where he produced the bulk of his history paintings and developed a measured, orderly style that emphasized design and narrative over painterly effect. His mature work helped define a rational approach to painting that would influence French art for generations.

Life and work

Born in Les Andelys, Normandy, Poussin moved to Paris early in his career and later relocated to

Style and themes

Poussin’s paintings are characterized by disciplined design, balanced spatial organization, and a preference for line and

Legacy

Poussin is regarded as a foundational figure of the French classical painting tradition. His emphasis on design

Rome,
where
he
remained
for
the
rest
of
his
life.
In
Rome
he
pursued
historical,
biblical,
and
mythological
subjects,
often
integrating
carefully
constructed
landscapes
and
architectural
elements
to
serve
the
story.
His
work
is
noted
for
its
clarity
of
composition,
precise
drawing,
and
restrained
color
palette.
geometry
to
convey
narrative
meaning.
He
prioritized
intellectual
clarity
and
moral
seriousness
in
his
scenes,
frequently
choosing
subjects
drawn
from
antiquity,
scripture,
and
antiquarian
history.
Landscape
often
functions
as
a
stage
for
action
rather
than
as
a
focal
point
in
its
own
right,
guiding
the
viewer’s
eye
through
a
carefully
orchestrated
tableau.
Notable
works
include
Et
in
Arcadia
ego
(c.
1637–38)
and
The
Funeral
of
Phocion
(c.
1648),
among
others.
and
narrative
coherence
influenced
the
later
development
of
neoclassicism
and
sparked
ongoing
discussions
within
the
French
Academy
about
the
primacy
of
drawing
versus
color,
a
debate
known
as
the
Poussinistes
versus
Rubenistes.
His
work
remains
associated
with
ideals
of
order,
restraint,
and
timeless
subject
matter.