The artwork “At the Garden Shrine, Pompeii” is an oil painting on canvas created in 1892 by the artist John William Godward. It belongs to the Neoclassicism art movement and is classified as a genre painting. Currently, the artwork is held in a private collection.
In this refined and serene composition, the artist masterfully depicts a young woman standing beside a table, prominently situated in front of a beautifully adorned garden shrine. The shrine features intricately carved statues and relief sculptures, adding an element of classical elegance to the setting. The woman, robed in a rich, flowing garment of deep purple with green accents, gazes contemplatively at a rose she holds near her face, evoking a sense of introspection and tranquility. A large Grecian-style pottery piece and fruits are meticulously placed on the marble table supported by lion sculptures, enhancing the graceful ambiance of the scene. In the background, lush trees and a clear sky provide a serene backdrop, completing the verdant and idyllic environment characteristic of Godward’s attention to classical detail and beauty.