Philip Hermogenes Calderon 1833-1898This is yet another favorite Pre-Rapaelites of mine. It suggests that the young woman is suffering the agonies of betrayal as she overhears her lover flirting with another woman. Her black clothes suggest that their wedding has been postponed until the end of her mourning period. It seems like he just could not wait for her. The black dress is also indicative of the death of their love, and the dying flowers towards the bottom right.
Anyone who has ever had a significant other betray them can sympathize with the pain the woman is feeling. Calderon gracefully conveys the pain that a body feels when its heart is breaking.
I love the analysis of this painting! It is beautiful but so sad.
ReplyDeleteThank you Ash I am glad you enjoyed it. Eventually I plan on going to the darker side of the Pre-Raphaelites.
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