Joan of Arc listening to her voices; Jeanne d’Arc écoutant ses voix Francois-Leon Benouville (1821-1859)

The composition presents a young woman seated upon a rocky outcrop, her gaze directed upwards and slightly to the left. She is dressed in simple, rustic clothing: a dark vest over a white blouse, a long red skirt, and bare feet suggesting vulnerability and connection to the earth. A staff rests across her lap, held loosely with one hand, while the other supports her weight as she sits on the stone. The setting appears to be a pastoral landscape, evidenced by the distant flock of sheep grazing in a field and a faint glow emanating from what seems to be a fire or settlement in the background.
Dominating the upper portion of the canvas is a dramatic celestial scene. Several figures, seemingly angelic or divine messengers, appear amidst swirling clouds and an atmospheric perspective that suggests great distance. These beings are not depicted with traditional halos or overtly religious iconography; instead, they possess a classical, almost sculptural quality, their forms rendered in muted tones against the turbulent sky. They hold what appear to be scrolls or banners, extending them towards the seated woman as if conveying a message.
The artist’s use of light and shadow is significant. The young woman is illuminated by an unseen source, highlighting her face and upper body while leaving the lower portion in relative darkness. This contrast draws attention to her expression – one of intense concentration mixed with apprehension or perhaps even awe. The celestial figures are also bathed in a soft, ethereal glow, further emphasizing their otherworldly nature.
Subtextually, the painting explores themes of divine guidance, faith, and the burden of revelation. The woman’s posture suggests both receptiveness and struggle; she is listening intently but appears burdened by what she hears. The pastoral setting contrasts with the dramatic celestial intervention, highlighting the tension between earthly existence and spiritual calling. The simplicity of her attire underscores her humility and connection to the common people, while the presence of the staff implies a journey or pilgrimage.
The figures in the sky are ambiguous; their classical forms suggest an ancient lineage of divine messengers, but their lack of overt religious symbolism allows for multiple interpretations. They could represent not only voices from above but also the weight of history and tradition bearing down upon this individual. The overall effect is one of profound psychological drama, portraying a moment of pivotal decision or spiritual crisis within a larger historical context.