The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood was a group of Victorian artists, poets, critics and writers who started as a rebellion towards the modern mechanistic style of art and shared a love for romantic symbolism and expressing nature and emotion through art. I was fortunate enough to see an exhibition of some of their most famous works a few years ago when it visited our local gallery. I was so enchanted by their style and the depth of their work that I have been a firm convert ever since.
Many of their paintings are quite easily recognised, but there are some treasures that are a little less well known but equally beautiful. I reccomend that if you ever get the chance to see one of these paintings in person, do not miss it! Prints and photos do not do them justice. Most of my favourites are by John Everett Millais and John William Waterhouse, who was heavily influenced by their themes but is sometimes classed a Neo-classical painter. Interestingly, I am not attracted to the works of Rossetti, amoung the most popular of the Pre-Raphaelite painters.
The movement wasn’t just about painting though, it inspired many creative people and spilled over in to home decorating, jewelry, writing, crafts and even artistic dress. You can learn more about this amazing group of people by following these links.
The Beautiful Necessity
My favourite Pre-Raphaelite blog! Grace takes a very practical approach to looking at Pre-Raphaelite work and explores its influence on modern culture. I always enjoy her illustrated posts which often bring my attention to some unsual detail I had not previously noticed. The author is a beautiful Pre-Raphaelite maiden herself!
JWWaterhouse.com
Whenever I need a little inspiration and beauty in my day I find myself inexplicably drawn here. Over 100 gorgeous images by this talented artist, each one telling a story. They also have a great community where you can read about other people’s experiences with the paintings and discuss the Mysterious Models who are featured in them. A great place to purchase prints too!
Earthly Paradise
Another beautiful blog. I love reading Margaret’s insights in to the meaning behind the artists’ and writers’ works, her recent entry on Beauty in Art was quite profound. Philosophy, Art and History all in one place, it is indeed Paradise.
Art Magick
Really gorgeous site and one of the few places I’ve found Pre-Raphaelite poetry online. I especially enjoy the collection of illustrated poems. This is a beautiful place to immerse yourself in, indulging in the beauty and romance of victorian poets and artists. Not sure where to start? Try A Garden by the Sea.
February 25th, 2008 at 11:19 pm
Thank you for the great links. I really love the art of the Pre-Raphaelite.
February 26th, 2008 at 1:43 am
I was just thinking about JWW this afternoon. ^^ He is a fabulous artist, definitely my favorite. I love his Lady of Shalott and Hylas and the Nymphs.
Actually, I’m not a fan of Rosetti either. I think because his women are not as delicate? Anyway, thank you for the links!
February 26th, 2008 at 6:12 am
Thanks for the link and review! I love the name of your blog–”Princess Portal”–what a great idea! The Princess code is charming. Glad to have found your site!
~Margaret
February 26th, 2008 at 4:23 pm
I just figured I’d stop by PP today and it’s so funny that you wrote about paintings today, too! What a coincidence! Of course, yours is much more informative, but how weird!
February 28th, 2008 at 8:32 pm
I simply love the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. Actually I graduated in art and this was my special topic (which means that I wrote a research paper and then introduced it to a comitee and also had to draw something myself.^^)
A “The Lady of Shalott”- poster is hanging upon my desk^^ and some more in my boyfriend’s room.
I am also collecting artwork books of them^^