Penelope and the Suitors

Artist John William Waterhouse (Rome, Italy, 1849 - 1917)

Associated Penelope

Date1911-1912

Mediumoil on canvas

ClassificationsPaintings And Drawings

DimensionsOverall: Height: 129.8 cm, Width: 188 cm
Frame: Height: 158.5 cm, Width: 218 cm

AcquisitionPurchased in 1912.

CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0

LocationOn Display - Gallery 01

Object numberABDAG003035

Keywords

About MeIn his later work J.W. Waterhouse wholly embraced the poetic imagination of the Pre-Raphaelites. To this he brought a broad handling and loose brushwork which has been credited to the influence of French painters such as Bastien-Lepage.

Penelope's legendary marital fidelity was recorded in Homer's epic poem, 'The Odyssey'. For many years, her husband Odysseus had been absent at the siege of Troy. Pressed to make a second marriage, she stalls for time, telling the crowds of suitors that they must wait until she has finished weaving a shroud for her father-in-law. During the day she works at her weaving and at night, still convinced that Odysseus will return, she undoes all her day's work.
More About Me

Collections Wall

Penelope looks pretty unimpressed by the gifts and attention being showered on her by her suitors. At least she has a lovely sea view out of her window!

Exhibitions

Gallery 01 - Collecting Art