“The Mystic Wood,” created by John William Waterhouse between 1914 and 1917, is an oil on canvas painting exemplifying the Romanticism art movement. Measuring 97.79 by 146.05 centimeters, this mythological painting is housed in the Queensland Art Gallery (QAG) in Brisbane, Australia.
The artwork presents an enchanting and mystical forest scene, where a white stag appears to guide a group of four figures through a dense and shadowy woods. The foremost figure, adorned in a rich green gown with intricate patterns, extends her hand toward the stag, appearing both cautious and curious. Behind her, two other women, dressed in flowing dresses, and a young child, clutching onto the third figure, observe intently. The atmosphere of the painting is one of both discovery and wonder, as the group seems to follow the stag deeper into the unknown forest, surrounded by towering, ancient trees. The painting captures an ethereal and timeless moment, evoking themes of myth and legend. Waterhouse’s use of color and delicate brushwork enhances the mysterious and dreamlike quality of the scene.
