From Roma

John William Waterhouse

John William Waterhouse (1849–1917) was a British painter associated with the late Pre-Raphaelite movement and Symbolism. He is best known for his romantic and atmospheric depictions of mythological, literary, and historical subjects, often drawing inspiration from Greek mythology, Arthurian legend, and poetry by writers such as Homer, Shakespeare, and Tennyson. Waterhouse’s work is characterized by rich color, delicate detail, and emotionally evocative imagery, with a strong focus on mysterious and tragic female figures. Paintings such as *The Lady of Shalott*, *Ophelia*, and *Hylas and the Nymphs* showcase his ability to blend classical themes with a distinctly modern sense of mood and realism. Though working later than the original Pre-Raphaelites, Waterhouse carried forward their legacy while developing a unique style that continues to captivate audiences and secure his place in the history of British art.