“The Hours” is an allegorical painting created in 1882 by Edward Burne-Jones, a prominent figure in the Romanticism art movement. Executed in oil on canvas, the painting measures 118.7 x 227.8 cm and is currently housed in the Sheffield Galleries and Museums, Sheffield, UK.
The artwork depicts six female figures seated in a linear arrangement, each engaged in different activities that symbolize various aspects of the passage of time. The women are dressed in classical robes, each adorned in rich, vibrant colors. From left to right, the figures exhibit a range of expressions and gestures, suggesting contemplation, music, labor, and rest, among other themes. The background portrays a serene landscape, offering a tranquil contrast to the animated figures in the foreground. The artist’s meticulous attention to detail and use of color highlights the intricate drapery and textures of the figures’ garments, capturing the Romantic spirit of celebrating beauty and emotion.
