John William Waterhouse

John William Waterhouse (1849-1917) was an English painter renowned for his association with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and his evocative depictions of classical mythology and literary subjects. Born in Rome to English parents who were both artists, Waterhouse moved to London, where he enrolled in the Royal Academy of Art Schools in 1870.

Waterhouse’s work is celebrated for its rich color palette and intricate detail, often portraying beautiful, dramatic women from myth and literature. Some of his most famous paintings include “The Lady of Shalott,” “Hylas and the Nymphs,” and “Ophelia”. His style evolved from classical themes to embrace the Pre-Raphaelite focus on beauty and emotion, making his work timeless and captivating.

Throughout his career, Waterhouse exhibited regularly at the Royal Academy and was honored as a full Royal Academician in 1895. Despite his style falling out of favor with the rise of Modernism, his work experienced a revival in the late 20th century and continues to be celebrated today.