Painting of the Month – Juliet (Alternative title - The Blue Necklace) After J W Waterhouse 1898

John William Waterhouse is known for depicting beautiful, powerful, and ultimately tragic women from both ancient Greek mythology and Arthurian legend.

This solitary portrayal of Shakespeare’s young star-crossed heroine who strived to express the purity of her love towards Romeo - which was doomed from the start – is perhaps the most famous love story ever written.

Juliet is pictured walking alongside a Venetian style canal. Waterhouse apparently made several trips to Italy where he found inspiration for his painting.

The soft, gentle line of his brushstrokes gives Juliet a dreamy, whist full and longing look.

William Waterhouse’s classical composition captures the romanticism in Shakespeare’s telling of young love.

I have relished the challenge of Waterhouse’s classical style. The shading in the painting I’m sure comes from Waterhouse’s left hand, the soft-focus background placing all the emphasis on Juliet. There is no place to hide in reproducing this picture.

A classical painting for a timeless love story.

Painting size 13” x 16” Oil on board

Frame size 18.5” x 21.5” Period Gilt Frame

£4,500