On first appearance the guests of this classically themed painting seem to be showered with roses and rose petals during an elaborate party. Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema in his painting ‘The Roses of Heliogabalus’ describes an event that took place during the short reign of Heliogabalus, an infamous Roman Emperor. In a similar engraving of lovers by Watteau where children are depicted, it is implied that they may be the fruits of tender love. The group sat behind the musician are deep in their own discussions whilst the child is resting on the lap of a woman maybe listening to the sweet music playing. Maybe implying that music be the food of love? There are other figures in this painting, one couple are leaving, maybe referencing the same couple but in the future? Another couple sit further away from the others and can be seen in the distance on the right of the painting. The musical instrument takes the central point of the composition with all diagonal references leading you to this. The bust behind the musician's head is thought to be of Pythagoras, who is credited with discovering a musical scale based upon a mathematical ratio. Framed by trailing vines, leaves and trees, suggesting intimacy and a private meeting. The warm palette is comforting and harmonious. The use of pink satine, red velvet and russet browns are prominent and almost tactile in their detailed application. He paints a musician totally captivated by the young maiden sitting at his feet and she with him. He makes reference to the musical scale in the title, in terms of the many stages of flirting and seduction. In this painting by Watteau, there are many symbolic references to represent love, the act of flirtation and lovers. She was inspired by Shakespeare, and the works of Petrarch, Dante and Boccaccio. Spartali Stillman produced many works of art and contributed to many exhibitions in both Britain and the United States. Spartali Stillman was a British painter of Greek descent and was a notable female artist during the Pre-raphaelite movement. The symbols portray fidelity and beauty in full bloom. The woman stands at an open window to receive the love letter brought by the dove. The symbols portrayed include the dove, roses and ivy and a blind-folded cupid embroidery. In this painting Love’s Messenger, there are many symbolic references. In Hindu tradition the dove symbolises the heart’s limitless capacity for love. Doves are a well known Christian symbol of Christ's peace and love. Doves were considered sacred animals in Greek and Roman mythology. Two doves depicted together represent everlasting and eternal love. Doves mate for a lifetime and have come to symbolise fidelity. This painting is very different from the usual 17th century formal marriage paintings of the time.ĭoves have long been associated with love and peace. Rubens leans towards his love with legs crossed, implying he is relaxed and in love, however if you look closely, Rubens has his left hand on the hilt of his sword, ready to defend his love and marriage and protect his bride depicting himself to be a true aristocratic gentleman. They are relaxed and comfortable with each other, sitting in a garden blooming with flowers. They tenderly hold each other's right hand representing the union of marriage. Old tales and superstitions alleged that honeysuckle flowers were lucky and could protect your garden from evil! Peter Paul Rubens has surrounded himself and his new wife with honeysuckle in his self portrait painting, entitled ‘Honeysuckle Bower’ c.1609. Honeysuckle is a climbing plant which grows clinging to walls and fences, having a strong hold of its habitat represents loyalty and devotion. It’s small blossoming highly scented flowers represent beauty, gentility and the blossoming feelings of love. Honeysuckle has been used as a symbol of love and generosity.
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