The artwork titled “Pygmalion and the Image II: The Hand Refrains,” created by Edward Burne-Jones between 1875 and 1878, belongs to the Romanticism art movement and falls under the genre of mythological painting. This piece is part of the “Pygmalion” series, which narrates the story of Pygmalion, a sculptor who falls in love with a statue he has carved.
In the artwork, Burne-Jones skillfully captures a moment of profound tension and admiration. The composition features two central figures: Pygmalion, the sculptor, garbed in a long, muted-colored robe, is depicted in an interior space with his hand raised thoughtfully to his mouth. Opposite him stands the lifelike statue, already animate, yet in a neutral pose with a gentle expression, embodying grace and beauty. The detailed background, complete with architectural elements and softly lit interiors, further enhances the mythical ambiance. The intricate frame adorned with floral motifs complements the painting, echoing the artist’s attention to detail and the Romantic sensibilities of the era.
