Diana and Endymion

Nicolas Le Sueur

National Gallery of Art

The image depicts two central figures. One figure, a man, is shown reclining against some drapery. He appears to be asleep, with his head resting on his hand and eyes closed. His long hair cascades past his shoulders. He is partially covered by a piece of cloth draped over his lower body and is holding a staff or rod with one hand. Another figure, a woman, is positioned behind him, looking down at him. Her hair is styled in an updo, with some decorative detail. She is wearing a flowing garment that leaves her arms bare. Two cherub-like figures hover above them, holding a torch, while two dogs lie at the man's feet. The background features swirling lines suggesting clouds or foliage.