The drama and romance of Classical art and architecture made a lasting impression on eminent Victorian artist John William Waterhouse (1849-1917) and provided the inspiration and setting for many of his best known works.
Born in Rome, Waterhouse's parents, both English artists, nurtured his artistic talent and love of classical subjects. Upon his family's return to England in 1870, Waterhouse attended Royal Academy Schools. The artist's early work, historical genre in ancient settings, was strongly influenced by the work of Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema.
Throughout his career Waterhouse painted romantic and poetic subjects, often featuring women characterized by their wistful expression...
