One of the celebrated artist in Philippines history from the 19th century is Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo. This work garnered numerous awards which cemented his name in Philippine history and also made him well known internationally.

In this acclaimed work of Hidalgo the boatman Charon ferries the damned souls to the gates of hell.

La Barca de Aqueronte

Oil on Canvas

Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo

1887

When Hidalgo was in Italy this work inspired him by reading Dante's Inferno. This is his depiction of the boatman of Hades taking the condemned souls across the River Acheron. This is the final version of the painting in which you could see Charon wearing a dark cloak and with an oar that almost looks like some sort of weapon. The look that he has is cruel and commanding. At first glance I thought that he was driving the souls off the boat. In fact his role is to take these souls to Hades. The chaos of the damned souls on the left is striking and greatly emphasized by the crashing of the waves. You could see the resistance of the character in front as it seems he is struggling to get off the boat and pushing the others away. The soul in front of him with closed fist is ready to give a heavy blow. He looks like to be fighting for a place on the boat. Some of them appears that they are trying to escape their fate.

The hand carved wooden frame is impressive on its own. With its intricate details of the fruits of the vine is worthy enough to hold this masterpiece. No name has been mentions to also credit the artist of the frame.

The detail is quite fascinating to examine closer and you could just imagine the time spent in its creation.

Awards

Gold medalist Exposicion General de Las Filipinas
1889 silver medalist at Paris Exposition
1891 Diploma of Honor from Exposicion General de Bellas Artes in Barcelona
1893 Gold medal Madrid Exposicion Internacional

This painting of Neo classical style is the final version by Hidalgo but there is another version of the painting. The other version is on display at the Lopez Museum that shows Charon as a naked man instead.

On the lower left side of the canvas is the signature of the master himself.

This masterpiece was created at his age of 34 and now remains as one of the celebrated art pieces in our country. A national treasure that would be forever remembered and appreciated. Sharing this art work to the community is my way of opening up a small window in our country. Hoping to share our art and the beauty of our culture to the world.

Thanks for joining me and have a good evening Steemians.

Source and Reference
La Barca de Aqueronte

Photos are original and shot from
nationalmuseum

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All photos are original and taken with

Lumix GX85 and 12-32 mm