Death and the Maidens

Death and the Maidens is an 1867-1871 painting by Pierre Puvis de Chavannes. It is housed in the National Gallery. The painting measures 0.314 meters in width and 0.406 meters in height.

The artwork depicts a scene with several women in flowing, classical-style garments. Some are dancing or moving gracefully, while others appear more still or contemplative. The figures are rendered with soft, muted colors and brushstrokes, creating a sense of ethereal movement and atmosphere. The background suggests a landscape with dark trees and a hint of sky, contributing to the overall mood of the piece. A dark, indistinct figure lies in the lower left, possibly representing death, as suggested by the title. The overall style is characteristic of Puvis de Chavannes' symbolist and classical influences.