20+ Best Painting to See at the Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum is one of the most famous museums in the world, and it’s packed with incredible paintings from all eras.
Of course, you already know Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci and probably Eugène Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People as well, they’re two of the biggest highlights and a must-see for any visitor.
These masterpieces are iconic, and people come from all over just to catch a glimpse.
But the Louvre is so much more than just its most famous works. There are tons of other amazing paintings waiting to be discovered, and in this post, I will show you some of them: from well-known pieces to hidden gems that you might not even know about
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Famous Paintings in the Louvre
1. “Mona Lisa” – Leonardo da Vinci
Leonardo da Vinci painted the Mona Lisa between 1503 and 1506 and possibly continued until 1517.
The subject of the portrait is believed to be Lisa Gherardini, the wife of Florentine merchant Francesco del Giocondo.
Leonardo was commissioned to paint the portrait, and it’s thought that Lisa Gherardini sat for him.
Leonardo’s relationship with the painting is complex. He carried the artwork with him, possibly left it unfinished, and it is believed that he continued to work on it over several years.
After Leonardo’s death in 1519, the painting eventually came into the possession of King Francis I of France and has been displayed in the Louvre Museum in Paris since the French Revolution.
Needless to say, Mona Lisa is Louvre’s most famous painting, and masterpiece.
2. “The Raft of the Medusa” – Théodore Géricault
“The Raft of the Medusa” is a masterpiece by Théodore Géricault, painted between 1818 and 1819.
The painting depicts the aftermath of the wreck of the French naval frigate Méduse.
In 1816, the ship ran aground off the coast of Mauritania, and the survivors were left stranded on a makeshift raft.
Géricault was deeply moved by the tragic event and created this monumental painting to convey human suffering, desperation, and the struggle for survival.
The composition captures the moment of rescue, as a ship on the horizon spots the survivors.
The painting is a powerful commentary on the incompetence and corruption in the French government and serves as a symbol of political and social critique.
Géricault’s dramatic portrayal of the harrowing experience and his attention to the human condition makes “The Raft of the Medusa” a poignant and significant work in the history of art, making it one of the best paintings to see in the Louvre.
3. “The Wedding at Cana” by Paolo Veronese
“The Wedding at Cana” is a famous painting created between 1562 and 1563.
The artwork depicts the biblical miracle of Jesus turning water into wine at the Wedding Feast at Cana, as described in the Gospel of John.
Veronese’s painting is known for its grand scale and richly detailed depiction of a sumptuous banquet. The scene is filled with a multitude of characters and intricate architectural elements.
The artist’s use of vibrant colors, opulent fabrics, and luxurious settings reflects the Venetian Renaissance style.
The painting was originally commissioned for the Benedictine Monastery of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice.
However, its grandiosity, which included a large number of secular figures and contemporary details, led to some controversy with the Inquisition.
Veronese was asked to make changes, such as altering the title to a more religious one.
Despite this, “The Wedding at Cana” remains a masterpiece, representing Veronese’s skill in capturing the splendor of the moment while conveying the biblical narrative, and is definitely one of the most impressive paintings in the Louvre.
4. “Liberty Leading the People” by Eugène Delacroix
“Liberty Leading the People” is a renowned painting by Eugène Delacroix, completed in 1830.
The artwork commemorates the July Revolution of that year, which led to the overthrow of Charles X, the last Bourbon king of France.
The painting portrays Liberty as a female allegorical figure leading a diverse group of revolutionary fighters forward over the bodies of fallen soldiers.
Liberty holds the French tricolor flag, symbolizing the ideals of the republic.
The scene is charged with emotion, and the composition is both heroic and chaotic, capturing the spirit of the revolutionary moment.
Delacroix’s work is a symbol of the triumph of liberty and the people’s will over oppression.
“Liberty Leading the People” has become an iconic representation of the revolutionary spirit and remains a powerful image in the history of art, being one of the best paintings to be seen in the Louvre Museum.
5. “The Coronation of Napoleon” by Jacques-Louis David
“The Coronation of Napoleon” is a monumental painting by Jacques-Louis David, completed in 1807.
It depicts the self-coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte and his consort, Joséphine, which took place at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris on December 2, 1804.
Commissioned by Napoleon himself, David’s painting is a grand portrayal of the elaborate coronation ceremony.
The central focus is on Napoleon, holding the crown above his head about to coronate his wife Joséphine, who knees in front of him, while religious figures, family members, and relatives watch.
David’s work serves a dual purpose – it functions as both historical documentation and political propaganda.
The artist emphasized the legitimacy of Napoleon’s rule and sought to portray the event as a continuation of the historical traditions of royal coronations.
The painting reflects the Neoclassical style, with its emphasis on clarity, order, and idealized forms.
6. “The Lacemaker” by Johannes Vermeer
“The Lacemaker” is a painting by the Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer, believed to have been created around 1669–1670.
The artwork is a serene depiction of a young woman engaged in the delicate craft of lace-making.
In “The Lacemaker,” Vermeer captures a quiet moment of domesticity and meticulous work.
The composition is characterized by the careful rendering of light and shadow, showcasing Vermeer’s mastery of color and texture.
The young woman’s absorbed concentration on her craft adds an intimate and contemplative quality to the scene.
The painting doesn’t overtly convey a narrative or moral lesson. Instead, it offers a glimpse into the everyday life of the Dutch middle class during the 17th century.
Vermeer’s focus on the ordinary and his ability to elevate simple domestic scenes to the realm of art contribute to the enduring appeal of “The Lacemaker.”
It represents Vermeer’s trademark style of using light to illuminate and elevate the beauty in the mundane.
7. “The Death of Sardanapalus” by Eugène Delacroix
“The Death of Sardanapalus” is a dramatic painting by Eugène Delacroix, completed in 1827.
The artwork is inspired by the historical account of the Assyrian king Sardanapalus, who, facing defeat in battle, chose to commit suicide along with his concubines and treasures rather than be captured.
Delacroix’s interpretation of the event is highly theatrical and emotionally charged. The composition features a chaotic scene of destruction, with the king on a massive bed overseeing the scene.
The vibrant colors, dynamic brushwork, and intense emotion expressed by the figures make this painting a prime example of Romanticism, a movement that celebrated emotion, individualism, and imagination.
The painting does not adhere strictly to historical accuracy but rather emphasizes the emotional and psychological aspects of the story.
“The Death of Sardanapalus” is a powerful representation of tragic grandeur and the defiance of authority in the face of imminent doom.
8. “The Virgin and Child with St. Anne” by Leonardo da Vinci
“The Virgin and Child with St. Anne” created between 1508 and 1519 depicts the Virgin Mary, the infant Jesus, and St. Anne, who is traditionally identified as Mary’s mother.
The painting is celebrated for its complex composition, showcasing the three figures in an interlocking embrace.
St. Anne is depicted holding her daughter, Mary, who, in turn, holds the infant Jesus.
Leonardo da Vinci was known for his meticulous study of anatomy, nature, and human expression, and these aspects are evident in “The Virgin and Child with St. Anne.”
The painting is a testament to Leonardo’s mastery of sfumato (a technique of blending colors and tones), creating a soft and atmospheric quality.
8. “The Grande Odalisque” by Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres
“The Grande Odalisque” is a renowned painting by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, created in 1814.
Commissioned by Caroline Murat, Queen of Naples, the painting features a reclining nude woman in an exoticized and oriental setting.
The odalisque, or female slave in a harem, is depicted with an elongated and idealized form, which has been a subject of both admiration and criticism.
Ingres intentionally elongated the figure to emphasize grace and sensuality, contributing to the dreamlike and otherworldly atmosphere of the painting.
“The Grande Odalisque” is a prime example of the Orientalist art movement prevalent in the 19th century. It reflects Western fantasies and perceptions of the exotic East.
The painting showcases Ingres’ technical mastery, attention to detail, and ability to merge classical influences with a romanticized vision of the Orient.
Despite anatomical inaccuracies, the work has become a significant piece in the history of art, admired for its beauty and evocative qualities.
9. “The Supper at Emmaus” by Caravaggio
The artwork depicts the biblical narrative of the resurrected Christ revealing himself to two disciples in the town of Emmaus.
In the Gospel of Luke (Luke 24:13–35), two disciples recognize Jesus during a meal when he breaks bread.
Caravaggio’s composition captures the moment of recognition and astonishment as Jesus blesses and breaks the bread.
Caravaggio’s “The Supper at Emmaus” is celebrated for its dramatic use of light and shadow, a hallmark of his Baroque style.
The intense realism and emotional depth in the expressions of the figures contribute to the impact of the scene.
10. “Death of a Virgin” by Caravaggio
This Caravaggio masterpiece depicts the death of the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus.
In the painting, the Virgin Mary is portrayed lying lifeless on a bed surrounded by grieving apostles.
Caravaggio, known for his dramatic use of light and shadow, focuses on the poignant moment of Mary’s passing.
Caravaggio’s “Death of the Virgin” caused controversy when it was created, as it deviated from conventional depictions of this religious subject.
The absence of divine light and the stark representation of Mary’s death challenged traditional artistic conventions of the time.
11. “The Virgin of the Rocks” by Leonardo da Vinci
“The Virgin of the Rocks” is a painting by Leonardo da Vinci, created in two versions.
The first version, known as the “Louvre version,” was likely painted between 1483 and 1486.
The second version, housed in the National Gallery in London, was created later, around 1495–1508.
Both versions of the painting depict the Virgin Mary, the Christ Child, the young St. John the Baptist, and an angel in a rocky, mysterious landscape.
The composition is known for its masterful use of chiaroscuro, where light and shadow are skillfully employed to create a sense of depth and atmosphere.
The subject matter represents the Madonna and Child with the infant St. John, a common theme in Renaissance art.
The rocky setting and the inclusion of the angel contribute to the mystical and symbolic elements of the painting.
12. “The Turkish Bath” by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres
“The Turkish Bath” depicts a group of nude women in an oriental or harem-like setting, a popular theme in 19th-century Orientalist art.
Ingres worked on “The Turkish Bath” over several decades, and the painting was left unfinished at the time of his death.
It was completed by his student Paul-Albert Besnard, following Ingres’ detailed sketches and instructions.
The painting is an exploration of exoticism and the romanticized idea of the East prevalent in 19th-century European art.
It features a sensual and luxurious atmosphere, with the women arranged in languid poses. The focus is on the female form, emphasizing a classical sense of beauty.
13. “The Astronomer” by Johannes Vermeer
The artwork depicts a man studying a celestial globe while surrounded by various astronomical instruments and books.
The painting is thought to be part of a series of works by Vermeer that explore the theme of knowledge and the sciences.
“The Astronomer” showcases Vermeer’s meticulous attention to detail and his mastery of light and color.
The soft illumination from a window on the left side of the scene enhances the sense of realism.
The figure in the painting is often identified as a scientist or scholar engaged in the pursuit of knowledge.
The presence of the celestial globe, quadrant, and open book adds to the scholarly atmosphere.
Vermeer’s composition invites viewers to contemplate the connections between the natural world, human understanding, and the pursuit of knowledge during the Dutch Golden Age.
14. “Portrait Of Louis XIV” By Hyacinthe Rigaud
This famous portrait captures Louis XIV, the Sun King, in his coronation, adorned with symbols of royal power.
Commissioned to commemorate the king’s coronation in 1654, the painting is an expression of Louis XIV’s absolute monarchy.
Rigaud masterfully portrays the king’s majesty, highlighting his authority and wealth.
Louis XIV is depicted holding a scepter and an orb, symbols of royal power, while his elaborate coronation robes and ermine-lined cloak emphasize his status.
Rigaud’s portrait reflects the grandiosity of the Bourbon monarchy during the era of Louis XIV.
The meticulous attention to detail and the splendid depiction of the king’s attire contribute to the overall magnificence of the artwork.
15. “St. Michael Vanquishing Satan” by Raphael
“St. Michael Vanquishing Satan” is a representation of the archangel Michael in the moment of triumph over Satan.
In Christian iconography, St. Michael is often depicted as a warrior angel who defends the faithful against the forces of evil, and Raphael’s interpretation of this powerful figure expresses his skills in composition, anatomy, and color.
The painting captures St. Michael in action, wielding a sword and standing over a defeated Satan, who writhes beneath him.
The vibrant colors and dramatic contrast between the celestial and infernal elements emphasize the cosmic battle between good and evil.
16. “The Arrival of Marie de Medici at Marseille” by Peter Paul Rubens
“The Arrival of Marie de’ Medici at Marseille” is part of a series of paintings created by Peter Paul Rubens commissioned by Marie de Medici, the widow of King Henry IV of France.
This particular painting was completed around 1622–1625.
The series, known as the “Marie de’ Medici cycle” or the “Medici Cycle,” comprises 24 large canvases, each illustrating significant events in the life of Marie de’ Medici.
The paintings were intended to decorate the Luxembourg Palace in Paris, where Marie de’ Medici resided.
“The Arrival of Marie de’ Medici at Marseille” portrays the queen’s arrival in Marseille, France, in 1600. The composition is dynamic, with a sense of grandeur and movement.
It depicts the queen disembarking from her ship, greeted by allegorical figures and personifications of the city.
The painting is part of a larger narrative celebrating Marie de’ Medici’s life, emphasizing her political role and the positive aspects of her reign.
17. “Gabrielle d’Estrées and one of her sisters” by unknown
Lots of mysteries involve this painting, beginning with its author, which still remains uncertain, although there are many speculations about his identity.
The painting is widely believed to depict Gabrielle d’Estrées, the mistress of King Henry IV of France, and one of her sisters.
In the painting, Gabrielle d’Estrées sits partially nude in a bathtub, and her sister pinches her exposed nipple.
The explicit and intimate nature of the scene has sparked much discussion and interpretation.
The painting is thought to be a symbolic or allegorical representation, possibly celebrating Gabrielle’s pregnancy or conveying political and courtly messages.
The sisters’ intertwined hands may suggest sisterly bonds, while the ring on Gabrielle’s finger may symbolize a marriage proposal.
Some art historians propose that the work alludes to the tensions and negotiations surrounding Gabrielle’s relationship with Henry IV.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding the artist and the exact meaning, “Gabrielle d’Estrées and One of Her Sisters” remains a notable and enigmatic example of 16th-century portraiture, making it one of the best paintings to see in the Louvre.
18. “Cheat with the Ace of Clubs” by Georges de La Tour
Painted around 1626-1629, it is also known as “The Cheat with the Ace of Clubs” or “The Cardsharps.”
The painting depicts a scene of cheating during a card game, with a young man stealing an ace from his unsuspecting opponent.
The artwork is a vivid representation of the moralizing themes common in Dutch genre painting of the time, warning against dishonesty and the vices associated with gambling.
The use of light and shadow, a characteristic feature of Georges de La Tour’s work, adds a dramatic touch to the scene, emphasizing the moral lesson conveyed in the painting.
19. “Madame Récamier” by Jacques-Louis David
The painting features Juliette Récamier, a prominent figure in French society during the early 19th century.
She was known for her beauty, intelligence, and connections with influential political and artistic figures of the time.
In the portrait, Madame Récamier is depicted reclining on a Directoire-style sofa.
She gazes directly at the viewer with an expression of serene contemplation.
The painting captures the grace and elegance of its subject, highlighting the fashionable and sophisticated ideals of the era.
Madame Récamier’s portrait remains an iconic representation of the beauty and charm of early 19th-century French society.
20. “Oath of the Horatii” by Jacques-Louis David
“Oath of the Horatii” is a famous Neoclassical painting by Jacques-Louis David, completed in 1784.
The artwork is named after the Roman legend of the Horatii, three brothers who pledged to defend Rome against Alba Longa in a duel.
The story symbolizes the values of patriotism, sacrifice, and duty.
In the painting, the three Horatii brothers stand in the center, raising their hands to take an oath before their father.
The father holds swords in his hand, symbolizing the weapons the brothers will use in the impending battle.
The women on the right side express grief, as one of them is betrothed to one of the enemies from Alba Longa.
“Oath of the Horatii” is a powerful representation of the Neoclassical style, characterized by its emphasis on clarity, order, and idealized forms.
The painting became a symbol of the virtues of self-sacrifice for the greater good of the state during the French Revolution.
David’s work had a significant impact on the development of French art and political thought during that period.
21. The Young Martyr – Paul Delaroche
Although a little disturbing, The Young Martyr is an extremely beautiful painting and one of my favorites at the Louvre.
The lighting of the image draws a lot of attention.
The painting depicts a young Christian martyr, associated with the persecution suffered by the Christians at the time of Emperor Diocletian’s reign (284-305).
The feeling that the painting gives is that the young woman has just spoken, and the play of colors, the mixture of light and dark helps to give an air of sadness to the work.
In the background, in the dark part of the figure, in contrast to the sunset, there is the figure of a couple, who watches the dead young woman floating in the Tiber River.
The painting’s main source of light comes from the divine halo on top of the young woman’s head.
22. The Intervention of the Sabine Women – Jacques-Louis David
The dramatic painting represents a legendary episode of the origin of Rome, which tells the story of the formation of the Roman population.
According to the records, Romulus, the founder of Rome and his first ruler had made diplomatic contact with the neighboring cities, so that women could be made available for marriage to Roman men.
However, all contacts were in vain.
The only way out would be to use force, since, without women, the Roman men would not leave descendants, leaving Rome in a situation of risk.
According to the writer Tito Lívio, an old biographer who recorded the history of Rome since its foundation. Romulus decided to organize a festival, called Consualia, in honor of the god Neptune Equestrian, and to invite his closest neighbors, the Sabines.
During the celebration of the festival, however, at the command of Romulus, Roman men launched themselves in the capture of women.
Revolted by the event, the Sabines returned to their city and planned several invasions of Rome, the first was defeated, but with the betrayal of a Roman, the Sabine army managed to invade the city, and in the middle of the battle, something unexpected It happened.
The Sabine women, who had been kidnapped, interceded because they did not accept the fight between their husbands and relatives.
The picture represents the moment when Hersilia, daughter of the leader Sabine Tito Tácio, and Romulus’s wife, places herself in the middle of her father and her husband, with the children at her feet.
With the intervention, the Sabinos ended up joining the Romans, doubling the population of the city of Romulus.
