“Mariana in the South,” crafted by John William Waterhouse in 1897, is a notable work of Romanticism rendered in oil on canvas. The artwork, which measures 114.3 x 72.39 cm, is classified under the genre of literary painting.
The artwork portrays a young woman, Mariana, as depicted in an intricately detailed and evocative interior setting. She is shown standing in front of an elegant arched mirror, her long, flowing hair cascading down her back. The composition captures the solemn and pensive mood of Mariana, perhaps reflecting on her solitude and longing. The delicate use of light and shadow enhances the melancholic ambiance, while the background reveals an interior adorned with checkered tiles and subtle architectural details, underscoring the period this painting represents. The overall effect is a poignant and contemplative moment frozen in time, inviting viewers to delve into her introspective world.