Artwork
Lady Macbeth
Lady Macbeth is a watercolor work on paper by the British Romanticist artist George Cattermole. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This watercolour, titled 'Lady Macbeth', is a work by George Cattermole, depicting a scene from Shakespeare's Macbeth.
Subject & Meaning
The painting shows Lady Macbeth standing beside the bed of King Duncan, holding daggers, as she prepares to commit a murder or has just done so. The dimly lit scene is filled with ominous details, including a suit of armour and heavy curtains.
Technique & Style
Cattermole employed soft watercolour strokes to capture the interplay of light and shadow, creating a quiet and serious atmosphere. The contrast between the woman's calm face and the man's pale skin adds to the tension.
History & Provenance
The work is signed and dated by the artist. It was once part of Richard Ellison's collection of British watercolours, later donated by his widow to the National Collection of Water Colour Paintings in 1860 and 1873.
Artist & collection
Artist
George Cattermole was a British painter and illustrator, chiefly in watercolours.
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