Henri Camille Danger 

1857 - 1939

Persé and Andromeda

Oil;on canvas signed lower left 

Dimensions : 85 cm x 52 cm / 33.46 inch x 20.47 inch
Dimensions with frame : 113 cm x 82 cm / 44.49 inch x 32.28 inch
Artwork description

The painting illustrates a famous episode from Greek mythology. Andromeda, daughter of King Cepheus and Queen Cassiopeia, was chained to a rock as punishment for her mother's pride in comparing her beauty to that of the Nereids, the sea gods. To appease Poseidon, who had unleashed a sea monster against their kingdom, Andromeda's parents offer her up as a sacrifice. But Perseus, returning after defeating the Gorgon Medusa, intervenes to save the princess and confront the creature.Read more

In this painting by Danger, Perseus is depicted as a heroic figure, standing confidently at the centre of the scene. He wears the winged helmet given to him by Hermes, a symbol of his speed and his link with the gods. In his left hand, he holds the shield in which Medusa's head is displayed, the instrument of his victory over the Gorgon and a formidable weapon against the sea monster. His spear, pointing forward, expresses his determination and his role as liberator.

At her feet, Andromeda appears in a position of extreme vulnerability. Completely naked, she is chained to a rock battered by foaming waves. Danger delicately captures the fragility of her body exposed to the elements, while emphasising her idealised beauty. This contrast between masculine heroism and feminine delicacy gives the composition a powerful narrative dynamic.

At the lower right of the painting, the threat emerges from the waves in the form of the sea monster. Its dark, reptilian silhouette is partially revealed, emerging from the tumultuous waters. Danger manages to imbue this creature with a disturbing aura without distracting attention from the confrontation to come.

The overall atmosphere of the work is dominated by dark tones, with deep blues and blacks intensifying the sense of danger and urgency. The flashes of light that strike the characters, particularly Perseus and Andromeda, create a dramatic contrast that enhances their heroic presence. This subtle treatment of light and shadow gives the whole piece a theatrical dimension that captivates the viewer.

 

 

Receive information on our exhibitions, news and events
The field is empty Please enter a valid address

By signing up, you agree to our privacy policy. You can unsubscribe or change your preferences at any time by clicking the link in all emails.

Send us an email
Marché Biron - Allée 1, Galeries 17 & 18 - 83-85 Rue des Rosiers
93400 Saint-Ouen sur Seine