Diana (Renoir painting)

Diana refers to at least two paintings by the French Impressionist artist Pierre-Auguste Renoir. The most well-known is Diana the Huntress, painted in 1867. This early work depicts the Roman goddess Diana, associated with the hunt, the moon, and nature. In this painting, Diana is shown nude, reclining in a forest landscape with a bow and a dead doe. The painting is notable for its academic style, which Renoir later abandoned in favor of a more impressionistic approach. Its somber mood and detailed execution contrast significantly with his later, more luminous and joyful depictions of the female figure.

Another painting titled Diana (sometimes referred to as Diana and Endymion) painted circa 1905-1910, is also attributed to Renoir. This later work depicts Diana with the sleeping shepherd Endymion, employing the looser brushstrokes and vibrant colors characteristic of his mature style. The goddess is typically portrayed gazing upon Endymion in a tender or protective manner. This second painting is less frequently discussed compared to Diana the Huntress.