Classicism and the Influence of Claude Lorrain
The French artist Claude Lorrain (1604/05-1682) was the greatest proponent of the ideal, or classical, landscape. His works are calm, idealised scenes from classical mythology or literature set in grand landscapes. Many include the sun as their focal point, an effect virtually never before shown in painting. In Turner's lifetime, over half of Claude's works were in British collections. The lasting reverence Turner felt for Claude's work led him to stipulate that two paintings in his Bequest should always be hung at the National Gallery, London, next to two paintings by Claude. Claude's influence on Turner is clearly evident in the painting Rocky Bay with Figures, as well as the drawing Glaucus and Scylla. Both works exhibit what has become known as classical conventions of composition and an expansive, idyllic atmosphere.