Arthur Hughes (1832-1915)"The scene is set after a lovers' quarrel: the girl's eyes are spilling tears while, behind her, barely indistinguishable in form and color from the wood around them, sits, her lover, head in hands."
I have always admired this painting and recently discover the lover in the background. I am not sure if it is just me but I have been looking at this picture for years and never saw him or the tears. My favorite part is the dress and the color scheme he chose, the purple is balanced with the greenery to perfection.
At its first showing Hughes accompanied the painting with an extract from Tennyson's poem "The Miller's Daughter":
- Love is hurt with jar and fret,
- Love is made a vague regret,
- Eyes with idle tears are set,
- Idle habit links us yet;
- What is Love? For we forget.
- Ah no, no.
I think that is a beautiful painting. I also think the colors are amazing together and really attract the eye.
ReplyDeleteI never noticed the background before, that's really interesting.
ReplyDeleteLizzy, I've always loved this painting. I remember seeing it in the Tate Gallery in London and being struck by that amazing shade of hydrangea-periwinkle blue. I bought a postcard of the painting, but the colors are so phenomenal that it's a must-see in person!
ReplyDeleteIt is hard to see the person in the background.
ReplyDeleteI believe it took me at least 4 years before I noticed him more than likely longer than that. I feel as though this image of it is a bit altered, the shade of purple is more than likely a periwinkle-hydrangea.
ReplyDeleteLeslie you once again make me envious. I too want to see the Tate Gallery. There are so many great works in it. Someday I hope to see it in person.
I am so pleased that you all have been enjoying the Pre-Raphaelites features as much as I have. More are scheduled already.
Not seen this one before, but it is stunningly beautiful. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteGlad I brought it to your attention, it is a lovely piece.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Leslie to really appreciate this work you need to see it in the flesh or canvas so to speak the colours are so intense any reproduction does not doit justice :D
ReplyDeleteSomeday I promise myself to see it in person. It just is not the same until you see it in its full glory. I imagine it a huge piece taller than me but I am not sure. I have never been able to find the size.
ReplyDeleteIt's gorgeous and the colors are amazing! So much emotion he manages to convey. Leslie - you are so lucky to have seen it in person!
ReplyDeleteI know Leslie is so lucky! I just keep thinking someday....
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