1863
oil
canvas
From the collection of National Gallery of Victoria
La Belle Dame sans merci is a 1863 oil by Arthur Hughes, held at National Gallery of Victoria.
This painting depicts a knight holding a woman in his arms. The knight wears a pink tunic with a brown cape and a belt around his waist. He has a sword at his side and is standing in a forest with trees and flowers around him. The woman has long red hair and is wearing a flowing dress. She appears to be sleeping or unconscious. The knight's expression is one of concern and sadness. The woman's dress is torn, and she has a small red flower in her hand. The background of the painting is dark and moody, with the trees and flowers adding a sense of depth and atmosphere. The painting's use of chiaroscuro creates a dramatic effect, with the light and dark areas contrasting to draw the viewer's attention to the central figures.
Arthur Hughes (27 January 1832 – 22 December 1915) was an English painter and illustrator associated with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood.
See the richer artist page
