In Greek mythology, the moon goddess Selene was the lover of a mortal shepherd, Endymion; their meetings could only take place at night. Poussin has chosen to represent the poignant moment when the two must part. Night draws back the curtain of darkness as the sun god Apollo brings in the new day.
Object Date
c. 1630
Dimensions
48 x 66½ in. (121.9 x 168.9 cm)
with frame: 59 x 77¼ x 3½ in.
149.9 x 196.2 x 8.9 cm
