Magog Thrown into the Sea (cartoon for the south wall, centre, of the ceiling cove, dining room, Dorchester House)
1860
oil
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1860
oil
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
The image depicts a painting of a man being thrown into the sea. He is shown in mid-air, with his arms and legs outstretched, and his body arched backwards. In the background, there is a figure of a woman, possibly a mermaid or a sea goddess, who appears to be emerging from the water. The scene is set against a dark, stormy sky, with waves crashing against the shore in the foreground. The painting is done in a dramatic and expressive style, with bold brushstrokes and vivid colors. The artist has used chiaroscuro to create a sense of depth and contrast, with the figures standing out against the dark background. The overall effect is one of dynamic energy and movement, as if the scene is unfolding before our eyes. The painting is a fine example of Alfred Stevens' work, and it can be found at the Victoria and Albert Museum.