The Death of Chione

The Death of Chione is an oil-on-canvas painting executed in 1622 by the French artist Nicolas Poussin, his first known surviving work.

This myth teaches that pride, arrogance, and challenging the Gods leads to disastrous consequences.

[1] The painting shows the scene after Chione has been killed; including the emotional reactions of the characters.

The placement of figures in the painting has structure and balance, with a central focus of a lifeless Chione.

The lighting in the painting creates an emphasis on Chione, and adds contrast to the dark background.

The Death of Chione (1622) by Nicolas Poussin