Dawn (1881)
William-Adolphe Bouguereau
“Glorious to behold, she wakes the world of men,
Riding ahead, opening the way
In her lofty car, majestic, delighting all,
Spreading light at the break of day.
As though proud of the loveliness of her body,
Freshly bathed, the young Dawn stands upright,
To be seen. Darkness, the Enemy, is expelled
When Heaven's Child appears, spreading light.
Heaven's Daughter, like a fair bride, lets fall the veil
From her breast: reveals brilliant delight
To him who adores her. As of old she came, so
The young Dawn stands again, spreading light."
-Rig Veda V. 80. 2, 5, 6.