In The Grove Of The Temple Of Isis 1915

John William Godward painted 'In The Grove Of The Temple Of Isis' during a time when Western society was fascinated by classical antiquity. Godward, like many artists of his time, uses imagery of ancient cultures to explore themes of beauty, leisure, and idealized life. This imagined grove is steeped in European fantasies about otherness. In particular, the figure of Isis was associated with ideas about female power and exoticism. The woman’s clothing, jewelry, and the lion sculpture, as well as the temple, are all visual cues that evoke a specific time and place. Godward’s painting reflects the conservative artistic values of his time, which prioritized academic skill and idealized beauty over social commentary or innovation. By studying the social and cultural context in which Godward created this work, we can better understand the attitudes, beliefs, and values that shaped its creation and reception.