Ovid’s fictional letter made it clear how the legend of Phaon was absurd. Yet it has been painted repeatedly ever since.
Alma-Tadema
We’re easily convinced of the reality of 2D images – as when early audiences panicked as the Lumières’ train ran at them in a movie. How has our exposure to pictures changed, though?
Like the Alma-Tademas, a Belgian family of talented painters who specialised in scenes set in Pompeii.
A story which has been told by a long succession of literary and musical works. But this painting is almost the only one to depict it visually.
Second and final part to commemorate his death a century ago, with several of his finest paintings.
He died a century ago, a succession of brilliant and very successful paintings behind him. First of two parts in retrospect.
You’d think a painting of him in battle would be ideal, not one of him being dragged from a brothel.
Beautiful paintings, devoid of narrative, symbols, or meaning. They represent the height of the Aesthetic movement: ‘pure’ art.
Specialising in Dutch domestic scenes in the 17th century, she explored reflections, and was assiduous in authenticity of details.
Where to see many of his paintings: an exhibition running now.
The Eclectic Light Company 