Artwork

The Temptation

The Temptation, by William Strang, oil, 1900
The Temptation, by William Strang, oil, 1900

The Temptation is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist William Strang. It dates from 1900 and is held in the collection of the Tate.

About this work

Overview

The Temptation is a 1900 oil painting by William Strang, held at the Tate Britain.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a man and a nude woman in a natural setting, with a snake in the background. The woman holds an apple, referencing the biblical story of Adam and Eve, and creating a sense of tension or temptation.

Technique & Style

The painting employs chiaroscuro, with strong contrasts between light and dark, to create a dramatic effect. This technique emphasizes the figures and their surroundings, heightening the sense of drama and tension.

The Garden of Pan
The Garden of Pan, Edward Burne-Jones

Artist & collection

Portrait of William Strang

Artist

William Strang

William Strang was a Scottish painter and printmaker, notable for illustrating the works of Bunyan, Cervantes, Coleridge, Kipling, and others.

Tate

Museum

Tate

Continue through works from the same source collection.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Tate open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Temptation?

The Temptation was painted by William Strang in 1900.

Where can I see The Temptation?

The Temptation is held by Tate.

What movement is The Temptation?

The Temptation is associated with Post-Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of The Temptation?

Museum-quality prints of The Temptation are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.