Endymion by John William Godward

Victorian era painting reaches an expression of rare poetry through the talent of the English artist John William Godward. His masterly canvas entitled “Endymion” offers an ideal representation of idleness and quiet sleep. The author’s aesthetic approach revolves around formal purity and a perfect balance of textures. It is a hymn to absolute rest in a setting inherited from Roman classicism.

A young dark-haired woman is deeply asleep on the floor of a rich ancient terrace. She is lying on her side, resting on a black animal skin that enhances the brightness of her complexion. She wears a flowing cream-white gown and an ochre scarf adorned with circular geometric patterns. Her head rests on a dark purple pillow, held by a pale blue fabric band in her hair. In the background, green and red toned veined marble slabs elegantly structure the space. Light stone steps on the right lead to a shady garden of great serenity. The soft twilight subtly caresses the folds of her clothing.

The virtuosity in the use of oil painting gives the scene an intimate atmosphere. The artist manages to capture the physical contrast between the softness of the draperies and the mineral rigor of the decor. It is an admirable testimony to his exceptional craftsmanship and his realistic genius.