Artwork
Love
Love is a watercolor work on paper by the Aestheticist artist Edward Coley, Sir Burne-Jones. It dates from 1884 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Love is a watercolour by Edward Coley Burne-Jones, originally designed as a detailed sketch for a large needlework panel. The piece has since been recognized as a significant watercolour work in its own right.
Subject & Meaning
The watercolour depicts a tender scene of a man in red robes embracing a woman in white, with their hands lightly touching and her eyes closed. The composition is accompanied by an inscription from Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy: 'L'amour che muove il sole e l'altre stelle' ('The love that moves the sun and other stars'), symbolizing the profound, celestial influence of love.
Technique & Style
Characterized by soft, almost pastel colors, the watercolour showcases Burne-Jones's meticulous and finished design approach, typical of his preparatory works for needlework translations.
History & Provenance
Burne-Jones created this design with the intention of it being translated into tapestry or needlework, a process later potentially facilitated by Frances Graham, with whom he would develop a romantic relationship. The watercolour itself remains a standalone piece within his oeuvre.
Context
Produced in the mid-19th century, 'Love' reflects Burne-Jones's involvement with the Aesthetic movement and his penchant for literary inspirations, notably Dante's seminal work.
Legacy
Initially conceived as a precursor to a textile piece, 'Love' has evolved in stature to be valued as an independent watercolour, contributing to Burne-Jones's reputation for nuanced, emotionally charged artworks.
Artist & collection
