Student Artwork Guide
Copyright This work is in the public domain. George Frederic Watts died in 1904; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it ended in 1974.
In context
Endymion — George Frederic Watts
The original measures 52 × 65 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.
Shaded: the lifetime of George Frederic Watts (1817–1904) ▲ this work, 1872
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Measured from the image
Main colour
Espresso #4e3d35
Catalogued palette
About this artwork
Endymion — George Frederic Watts
The painting Endymion by George Frederic Watts is a beautiful depiction of the Greek mythological story of Endymion and Selene. Created in 1872, this oil on canvas piece measures 52 x 65 cm and showcases the artist's exceptional skill in capturing serene and natural settings.
The scene shows Endymion lying on the ground with his head resting in Selene's lap as she sits beside him. They are surrounded by a peaceful atmosphere, complete with trees and flowers. The painting also features two birds, one perched on the ground near the right side of the image and the other flying above the couple. A cat can be seen resting on the ground towards the bottom right corner of the painting. Key Elements of the Painting Some notable elements of the painting include:
The use of soft, muted colors to create a sense of calm and serenity
The depiction of the natural setting, which adds to the overall peaceful atmosphere
The focus on the connection between Endymion and Selene, highlighting their love and intimacy
Other artists have also depicted the story of Endymion in their work. For example, Nicolas Poussin created a painting titled Selene and Endymion, which is now housed at the Detroit Institute of Arts. This painting showcases Poussin's exceptional skill in capturing mythological scenes with elegance and precision.
The Museu st Edmund's College in Cambridge, UK, also features a collection of famous paintings and reproductions of artworks, including those by renowned artists. For more information on the museum and its collection, visit Museu st Edmund's College.
To view more paintings by George Frederic Watts, including Endymion, visit AllPaintingsStore.com. The website offers a wide range of handmade oil painting reproductions, perfect for art lovers and collectors alike.
Artist and museum
Born in Marylebone, United Kingdom
george frederic watts, a prominent figure in the symbolist movement, was born on february 23, 1817, in marylebone, london. his early life was marked by delicate health and the loss of his mother at a young age. watts' father, a piano-maker, provided him with a conservative christian education and introduced him to the classics, including the iliad. this classical influence would later become a cornerstone of his artistic style.
watts began his artistic journey at the age of 10, learning sculpture under william behnes. he later enrolled as a student at the royal academy schools at 18. his first exhibition at the academy in 1837 marked the beginning of his prolific career.
caractacus, a drawing submitted for a competition to design murals for the new houses of parliament, earned watts a first prize in 1843.
his subsequent travels to italy (1843-1847) and his association with the british ambassador henry fox influenced his style, as seen in his portrait of lady holland, exhibited in 1848.
watts' return to britain led to a commission for a fresco in the houses of parliament, which he completed between 1848 and 1853.
watts' most famous works include:
hope and love and life, intended as part of an epic symbolic cycle called the "house of life."
the triumph of the red cross knight (from the faerie queene), completed in 1852-53, showcases his mastery of allegorical subjects.
his portrait of actress ellen terry, painted in 1864, exemplifies his ability to capture the essence of his subjects.
watts' influence on the art world is undeniable. his association with the symbolist movement and his innovative use of color and form have made him a beloved figure in the history of british art. view george frederic watts' artworks on AllPaintingsStore.com
lincoln's inn, featuring his fresco justice, a hemicircle of lawgivers.
the watts gallery – artists' village in guildford, united kingdom, dedicated to preserving watts' works and other artists.
discover more about george frederic watts and his contributions to the symbolist movement on AllPaintingsStore.com.
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Look closely
Endymion — George Frederic Watts
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