Pygmalion and the Image II: The Hand Refrains (1878) by Edward Burne-Jones

Step into the enchanting realm of Edward Burne-Jones's "Pygmalion and the Image II: The Hand Refrains" (1878). This captivating depiction of the mythical sculptor Pygmalion and his lifelike creation, the ivory statue Galatea, invites us to ponder the boundaries between art and life, desire and reality.

Burne-Jones's Techniques: Ethereal Beauty Through Line and Color

Burne-Jones's mastery of line and color is evident in every stroke of "Pygmalion and the Image II." The elongated figures, with their flowing robes and graceful gestures, exude an ethereal beauty. The soft, muted tones create a dreamlike atmosphere, blurring the lines between the physical and the imagined.

Beyond the Image: Symbolism and Meaning

The painting is rich in symbolism. Pygmalion's intense gaze upon Galatea reveals his desire for her to become a living, breathing being. The rose he holds represents both love and the transformative power of art. The ivy entwined around Galatea's feet symbolizes the connection between nature and creativity.

Artistic Context: The Pre-Raphaelites and the Revival of Medievalism

"Pygmalion and the Image II" is a prime example of the Pre-Raphaelite movement, which sought to revive the artistic ideals of the Middle Ages. Burne-Jones drew inspiration from medieval tapestries and illuminated manuscripts, creating a work that evokes a sense of timelessness and enchantment.

Feelings Conveyed: Desire, Fulfillment, and the Limits of Creation

Burne-Jones's painting explores the complex emotions surrounding desire and creation. Pygmalion's longing for Galatea to become real reflects the human desire for perfection and control. Yet, the painting also acknowledges the limits of human abilities and the elusive nature of true fulfillment.

Experience the Masterpiece in Your Own Space

This museum-quality canvas print captures the delicate beauty and evocative power of Burne-Jones's original. "Pygmalion and the Image II: The Hand Refrains" becomes a window into a timeless tale of desire, creation, and the boundaries between art and reality.

Let Edward Burne-Jones's "Pygmalion and the Image II" inspire your imagination, spark meaningful conversations, and remind you of the enduring power of art to explore the depths of the human experience.