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Circe Invidiosa

John William Waterhouse

Item Number: 29834

$

Circe Invidiosa (1892) by John William Waterhouse depicts envy, power, and mythology in a captivating way. Inspired by Homer's Odyssey, the picture depicts the sorceress Circe pouring a brilliant gree...

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Features “Circe Invidiosa” by John William Waterhouse
Main Features
Author
Color
Black, Blue, Green, Brown, White
Tags
Mystical, Dark Dress, Nature, Reflection, Mythology
Main Features
Alternate Titles
Jealous Circe
Art Movement
Pre-Raphaelite
Historical Events
Victorian Era
Visual and Stylistic Elements
Brushwork/Texture
Refined And Detailed
Focal Point
Circe Pouring The Poison
Light Source
Mystical Glow
Objects
Woman , Bowl , Water , Forest
Orientation
Vertical
Perspective
Centered Perspective
Original Masterpiece Features
Condition/Restoration History
Minimal Restoration
Creation Process
Oil On Canvas
Inscriptions/Signatures
Signed By Waterhouse
Patron/Commissioner
Unknown
Provenance
Tate Britain
Influences and Related Works
Influences
Greek Mythology
Related Works
The Magic Circle
Exhibition and Market Information
Auction Price
Not For Sale
Criticism & Reception
Celebrated For Its Mythological Depth
Cultural Significance
Symbolizes Mythical Power And Revenge
Current Owner
Tate Britain
Exhibition History
Tate Britain
Insurance Value
Priceless
Market Trends
High Demand
Public Domain Status
Public Domain
Reproductions
Highly Reproduced
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Description “Circe Invidiosa” by John William Waterhouse

Circe Invidiosa (1892) by John William Waterhouse depicts envy, power, and mythology in a captivating way. Inspired by Homer's Odyssey, the picture depicts the sorceress Circe pouring a brilliant green potion into the sea. This metamorphosis reflects her jealousy of Scylla, whom she curses out of vengeance. The artwork is a study in opposites, combining elegance and menace, order and anarchy, to create a single compelling image.

Circe is the picture's centre point, with her tall, imposing figure that is both feminine and unearthly. Her flowing blue robe, which covers her entire body like liquid, connects her to the potion she holds. The green elixir glows with an almost supernatural intensity, its vibrancy drawing the viewer’s eye immediately. This glowing liquid, poised to poison the waters, symbolizes the destructive power of envy and revenge.

The surrounding environment adds to the drama of the scene. Waterhouse's use of muted earth tones and calm, dark waters provides a dramatic contrast to the bright potion and Circe's imposing presence. The swirling water, lush flora, and mirrored surface enhance the painting's immersive qualities, giving spectators the impression that they are watching a momentous legendary scene.

A spectrum of emotions may be seen in Circe's face, from a hint of weakness to a composed resolve. Viewers are prompted to consider the depth of Waterhouse's character by her meticulous attention to facial expressions. Is her act of revenge motivated by betrayal and hurt, or is it just rude behaviour? The artist gives the story more complexity by leaving these questions tantalisingly unsolved.

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Additional Information “Circe Invidiosa” by John William Waterhouse

“Waterhouse painted dangerous beauty with seductive skill.” Peter Trippi

“Circe embodies the Victorian fascination with the femme fatale.” Anthony Hobson

“The green waters seem to pulse with malevolent power.” Elizabeth Prettejohn

“Waterhouse made classical mythology feel immediate and threatening.” Christopher Wood

“In Circe, he found his perfect subject - beauty with a dark side.” Aubrey Noakes

#1. Greek Mythology. Circe was the sorceress who transformed Odysseus's men into pigs in Homer's Odyssey.

#2. Poison Scene. The painting shows Circe pouring poison into the sea to transform a rival into a monster.

#3. Femme Fatale. Circe represents the dangerous woman archetype popular in Victorian art.

#4. Underwater Setting. The innovative underwater viewpoint was technically challenging to execute.

#5. Green Palette. The emerald green color scheme emphasizes the supernatural and poisonous nature of the scene.

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