1864
oil
canvas
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
Phidias (c.480 BC–c.430 BC) (design for a mosaic in the Victoria and Albert Museum) is a 1864 oil by Edward John, Sir Poynter, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.
This painting depicts a man standing in front of a building, dressed in a green toga. He is barefoot and holds a statue in his right hand and a tool in his left. The background is a yellow wall with a grid pattern. The man's facial expression is serious, and his posture conveys confidence. The statue he holds appears to be a representation of a woman, possibly a goddess. The tool in his left hand could be a chisel or hammer, suggesting that he is a sculptor or artist. The painting's style and composition are reminiscent of classical Greek art. The use of earthy tones and the focus on the human form are characteristic of this period. To learn more about this style, explore the work of Edward Poynter.
Sir Edward John Poynter, 1st Baronet (20 March 1836 – 26 July 1919) was an English painter, designer, and draughtsman, who served as President of the Royal Academy.
See the richer artist page
