The Shrine 1895

Editor: So, this is "The Shrine," painted in 1895 by John William Waterhouse. It's an oil painting that depicts a woman smelling flowers, bathed in soft light, and for me there’s a sense of serene stillness... almost dreamlike. What do you see in this piece, beyond the obvious? Curator: Beyond, you say? Well, it feels as if the woman's caught in a private, fragrant world. It's like stepping into a memory, isn't it? Waterhouse had a knack for these suspended moments. Notice how the hard edges of the architecture contrast with the soft textures of her dress and the flowers. I think that’s an intentional, painterly contrast. It suggests she is poised between two worlds. It feels intimate but also theatrical. Does that resonate with you? Editor: Definitely. The almost photographic realism in the steps, makes it feels more modern, or real... But the Pre-Raphaelite element gives it that old-time sensibility. I can definitely see a blending. Why do you think he mixed the realism of steps, versus other techniques used on other areas? Curator: I think Waterhouse loved pushing the boundaries, while remaining respectful to past techniques and movements, as many successful artists do! What he has created here is to give this portrait weight within his own imagination, between worlds that would’ve previously been unseen together! Now I'm really curious; does it make you feel different, or is my analysis only an idea? Editor: It does feel different now! It really makes me wonder what worlds, and the possibilities each one can hold. Thank you. Curator: The pleasure was all mine! It’s these conversations that give new life to these older artworks.