Artwork
Woman Drinking from a Fountain
Woman Drinking from a Fountain is an oil painting by the Pre-Raphaelite artist William Morris. It dates from 1860 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Woman Drinking from a Fountain is a painting executed in oil paint by William Morris in 1860. It is now part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a woman in a medieval-inspired setting, bending to drink from a fountain. Her posture and the act of drinking convey a sense of intimacy and quiet contemplation, while the dark background and her attire add to the overall solemnity.
Technique & Style
The work reflects the pre-Raphaelite style, characterized by the use of chiaroscuro, a technique that employs strong contrasts between light and dark. This stylistic choice contributes to the painting's mood and atmosphere.
Context
The painting aligns with Morris's interest in medievalism, cultivated during his studies at Oxford University. It represents his engagement with the pre-Raphaelite style during his early career as a textile designer, poet, and socialist activist associated with the Arts and Crafts movement.
Artist & collection
Artist
William Morris (24 March 1834 – 3 October 1896) was an English textile designer, poet, artist, writer, and socialist activist associated with the British Arts and Crafts movement.
