Waterhouse, John W. (1849-1917) - Ophelia c.1886

Ophelia is a painting by the English painter John William Waterhouse, depicting a character in William Shakespeare's drama Hamlet.

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There is a smaller version of this image in our John William Waterhouse 67-image collection.

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John William Waterhouse (1849-1917) was an English painter known for his captivating depictions of mythological and literary themes, which captured the Victorian fascination with the classical world.

Born in Rome to English parents, Waterhouse was exposed to the rich artistic heritage of Italy from an early age, which significantly influenced his work. Waterhouse is perhaps best known for his Pre-Raphaelite style, characterised by vibrant colours, attention to detail and a romanticised portrayal of female figures.

Works such as 'The Lady of Shalott' and 'La Belle Dame sans Merci' resonate with themes of beauty, longing and tragedy, drawing inspiration from Tennyson and Keats. His ability to evoke a sense of narrative and emotion in his paintings allowed viewers to connect deeply with the subjects he portrayed.

Throughout his career, Waterhouse faced both acclaim and criticism, particularly as he continued to evolve his style in an era increasingly enamoured with modernism.

Nevertheless, his works remain emblematic of the late Victorian period and its rich interplay between art, literature and mythology.

The artist's legacy is preserved in collections around the world, with the Tate Britain and the Manchester Art Gallery holding significant pieces.  Waterhouse’s ability to mesmerise audiences with his enchanting interpretations of classical and literary themes ensures his place as a cherished figure in the realm of British art.