“Virgil Reading the Aeneid to Augustus and Octavia” is an oil painting on canvas created by Angelica Kauffman. This neoclassical and rococo artwork, categorized as a history painting, measures 123 x 159 cm and is housed in the Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg, Russia.
In the artwork, the Roman poet Virgil is depicted reading his epic, the Aeneid, to Augustus and his sister Octavia. The scene is set in a spacious interior with classical architectural elements, including large columns and a distant view of ancient structures outside a prominent archway. Augustus is positioned to the left, draped in red, energetically gesturing as he listens to the poet. Octavia, in the center, is shown fainting, overcome by emotion at the reading, supported by attendants. Virgil stands to the right, holding a scroll, dressed in a white tunic with a dark robe, reflecting his role as the orator and author. The use of soft, warm colors and the careful composition highlight the emotional and dramatic moment being portrayed. The gracefulness and classical elegance of the figures, combined with the historical narrative, exemplify the characteristics of Kauffman’s style and the neoclassical movement.
