“The Garden of the Hesperides,” created by Edward Burne-Jones in 1882, is a tempera, gilt, and gesso artwork that belongs to the Romanticism movement. The artwork measures 68.5 by 164 centimeters and is part of the mythological painting genre. This piece, which is part of the “Garden of the Hesperides” series, is currently housed in the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London, UK.
The artwork depicts a serene and mystical scene influenced by classical mythology. At the center, a majestic tree adorned with silver-gilded leaves and golden apples stands as the focal point. Twining around it is a blue dragon, a guardian of the precious fruits. On either side of the tree, two maidens, representing the Hesperides, are portrayed. One maiden, on the left, is holding a chalice, while the other, on the right, plays a lyre, suggesting an atmosphere of both vigilance and harmony. The background features a gilded wall, further emphasizing the otherworldly and opulent nature of the setting. The use of tempera and gesso highlights the intricate details and the shimmering quality of the scene.
