Diana And Actaeon Analysis

Titian’s work epitomizes the transition from 15th century style painting to a less “meticulous[ly] finished” approach; Titian essentially pioneered the “colorist” movement by using “…more closely interrelated colours” that emphasize expression and dramatize the iconography (Gould). Diana and Actaeon is part of Titian’s “poesie” and contributes to a set of history paintings that portray subjects in an imaginative way. Rather than simply copy an image or provide a story, Titian delivers a representation filled with expression, filled with allusion. Though small details and items are usually placed for symbolic reasons, Titian seems to include various details to foreshadow downfall (the stag head, the hunting scene, the various reflective surfaces,
Through precise characterization and the inclusion of foreshadowing devices, Titian builds his own interpretation: a representation with expression and passion. However, how does Titian establish his overall aura? Through the use of color, Titian continues to deliver narrative detail: “the great swathe of drapery in carmine red, pulled hastily off the line by an ambitious nymph… draws the eye across from the vermillion lining of his buskins to the deeper red of Diana's discarded dress, reminding us that his bloody hide will soon be strung up [too]…” (Paintings in Depth: Diana and Actaeon). His color choice and placement pulls the eye around the painting in the manner he desires- leaving the viewer in a state of alarm yet simultaneous interest. For red communicates blood/violence yet also passion. “The mood in [Titian’s later work] is more fiery, the colours deeper and more closely interrelated and the execution more summary” (Gould). The color only further summarizes the intensity and duality of the narrative- passion exists alongside terror. The crimson red clashes against the bright blue sky. Titian is harnessing color for