The Month of March c. 1866

Edward Burne-Jones created "The Month of March" as a graphite drawing on paper. The composition is dominated by a standing figure, draped in heavy fabric, which merges sensuality with melancholic introspection. The artist used a combination of delicate and bold strokes to give the drawing life. The drawing utilizes a semiotic system of signs, especially the use of flowers and a bird, to represent themes of renewal and hope, all within the context of the Pre-Raphaelite movement’s interest in symbolism. The heavy drapery enveloping the figure serves not only as a formal element that contours the body but also as a signifier of emotional weight, perhaps alluding to the transience of spring. The drawing challenges the viewer to look beyond the surface of mere representation, prompting an interpretation that acknowledges how visual forms themselves are imbued with cultural and philosophical meaning. The artist destabilizes the traditional notions of beauty, imbuing the artwork with a contemplative depth that resonates beyond its aesthetic appeal.