Sleep and His Half Brother Death (1874) by John William Waterhouse

Sleep and His Half Brother Death - John William Waterhouse - 1874

Artwork Information

TitleSleep and His Half Brother Death
ArtistJohn William Waterhouse
Date1874
Mediumoil,canvas
Dimensions69.85 x 90.81 cm
Art MovementRomanticism
Current LocationPrivate Collection

About Sleep and His Half Brother Death

“Sleep and His Half Brother Death” is an oil on canvas painting created by John William Waterhouse in 1874, belonging to the Romanticism movement. The artwork, a mythological painting with dimensions of 69.85 x 90.81 cm, currently resides in a private collection.

The artwork portrays two youthful male figures, bathed in a warm yet somber light, reflecting themes of tranquility and finality. The figures, presumably representing Sleep and Death, are depicted reclining together, their limbs relaxed and faces serene. One holds a poppy, a symbol often associated with sleep and death, while their surroundings are shaded with draped fabrics and darkened architectural elements, invoking a sense of serene timelessness. The use of muted tones and chiaroscuro enhances the contemplative and serene atmosphere, typical of Waterhouse’s skill in evoking emotional depth through classical mythological subjects.

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