Bakker, Jacob Adriaanse – Rest Diana Hermitage ~ Part 01

The painting depicts a scene of tranquil repose featuring Diana, the Roman goddess of the hunt, accompanied by her nymphs. Diana is centrally positioned, her body elegantly turned away from the viewer, revealing her back and a portion of her side. She is adorned with a pearl-studded headband and appears to be lounging on luxurious textiles, including a deep red velvet drapery and white linen. Her gaze is directed towards her companions.

Around Diana, three nymphs are visible. One looks towards Diana with a contemplative expression, another is partially obscured, and a third, to the left, gazes outwards with a melancholic air. The presence of a greyhound, a dog often associated with hunting and the protection of Diana, further reinforces the theme. The setting is a forest glen, with lush foliage and trees forming a dark, verdant backdrop. A body of water is suggested in the distance, and the sky above is painted with dramatic clouds. At the forefront on the left, a quiver filled with arrows and a bow are laid out, symbols of Dianas domain as the huntress.

The subtexts of the painting revolve around themes of divinity and vulnerability, rest and vigilance, and beauty and chastity. Diana, despite being a goddess, is depicted in a moment of repose, humanizing her divine nature. The presence of her nymphs suggests a protected, intimate space, a sanctuary for the huntress. The juxtaposition of the hunting implements (bow and arrows) with the act of resting highlights the duality of Dianas role. The overall atmosphere is one of serene beauty, but the pensive expressions of some figures, particularly the nymph on the left, might suggest an underlying tension or a moment of introspection, perhaps hinting at the solitary nature of Dianas pursuit and her eternal virginity, which set her apart from mortal concerns and desires. The rich fabrics and soft lighting emphasize sensuality, yet the context of Diana as the goddess of the hunt and chastity imbues the scene with an undertone of purity and self-possession.