About John William Wall Art

John William Waterhouse (1849-1917) was an English painter of the Victorian era. He belonged to the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, a group of artists dedicated to reviving the beauty and grandeur of religious medieval works from the 15th century.

Waterhouse is renowned for his expansive portrayals of Greek mythology and Arthurian legend. While his work exhibits Classical influences, it also bears traces of Impressionism, evident in some of his brushwork. Overall, Waterhouse's art is a fusion of Classicism and Romanticism, endowing it with a distinctive and easily recognizable character.

Characteristics of the John William Waterhouse style:

John William Waterhouse drew inspiration from several interconnected artistic movements. As mentioned, the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood played a significant role in shaping his style. However, his favorite subject matter predominantly centered on women.

A substantial portion of Waterhouse's body of work features solitary women set against breathtaking landscapes. Many of these subjects are iconic historical figures, such as Cleopatra, Shakespeare's Juliet and Ophelia. While his art often takes the form of portraits, it exudes a sensuous energy reminiscent of Romantic ideals celebrating the beauty of the natural world.

Waterhouse also explored figures from Greek mythology, including Ulysses, characters from Greek history like Diogenes and Emperor Honorius, and literary subjects such as The Lady of Shalott from Tennyson's renowned poem.

His depiction of Ulysses, inspired by Homer's epic, holds particular significance. Waterhouse's deep connection with the poem is evident in the Romantic, melancholic undertones that permeate his paintings.

Where to display John William Waterhouse's wall art:

John William Waterhouse's wall art possesses a distinct style characterized by realist elements and a Classical allure reminiscent of Renaissance-era works. The color palette often features rich reds, oranges, and browns, contributing to its overall tone. His collection also includes brighter works and single-tone sketches, many of which are equally evocative as his masterpieces.

Waterhouse's most celebrated works are ideally suited for luxurious settings. Rooms adorned with elegant wooden or upholstered furniture, as well as architectural features like cornices, pilasters, and beading, provide the perfect backdrop for his art. However, his landscape paintings, influenced by Impressionism, can also complement modern decor styles.

John William Waterhouse's wall art offers the opportunity to infuse your home with a sense of Classical elegance. These captivating works transcend the confines of galleries and make exceptional gifts for art enthusiasts. Explore our collection to discover a piece that resonates with your aesthetic sensibilities