The Flowers of Venus 1890

John William Godward painted ‘The Flowers of Venus’ using oil on canvas, though its precise date is unknown. Looking at this painting, we must understand the Victorian obsession with classical antiquity and the social role it played. Godward was part of a group of artists who rejected the rapid industrialization of Britain and instead looked to the ancient world for inspiration. The artist creates a romanticized vision of the past, referencing ancient Greek and Roman cultures to establish his aesthetic and cultural values. The woman depicted is idealized. Her classical drapery is rendered with precision, her pose and demeanor evoking serenity and grace. However, it's vital to recognize that this vision of antiquity was far removed from historical reality. It reflected the values and desires of the Victorian elite: their sense of order, beauty, and harmony. Scholars of social history continue to unpack how these classical paintings helped to reinforce Victorian social norms, particularly around gender and class. Godward's paintings offer a window into the complex interplay between art, society, and historical interpretation.