Selene 1880

Albert Aublet painted 'Selene', sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century, using oil on canvas. The artwork draws on classical mythology, depicting the Greek goddess of the moon. During Aublet's time, the academic art world in France was starting to be challenged by new avant-garde movements. While rooted in classical themes, 'Selene' also reflects a modern sensibility in its ethereal treatment of light and form. Aublet would have been well aware of the Salon system, the official art exhibitions sanctioned by the French Académie des Beaux-Arts, and the social hierarchies that these perpetuated. By portraying a mythological figure with sensuality, the work flirts with both conservative and progressive ideals. To fully appreciate 'Selene,' it's helpful to delve into the art criticism of the period, exploring debates around academic painting, and the rise of Symbolism. Through historical context, we can better understand the social and cultural meanings embedded in the work.