The Magic Circle

Image credit: Tate

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Miracles, magic and the power of prophecy are common themes in Waterhouse's art. More specifically, the notion of woman as enchantress is one that recurs in images such as 'Circe Offering the Cup to Ulysees' (1891, Oldham Art Gallery) and 'Hylas and the Nymphs' (1896, Manchester City Art Gallery). His oeuvre also includes a number of middle-eastern subjects, in which he drew on the work of contemporary artists such as J. F Lewis and Lawrence Alma-Tadema, rather than on actual experience. This is one of Waterhouse's earlier works, and reflects his fascination with the exotic. The woman in this picture appears to be a witch or priestess, endowed with magic powers, possibly the power of prophecy. Her dress and general appearance is highly eclectic, and is derived from several sources: she has the swarthy complexion of a woman of middle-eastern origin; her hairstyle is like that of an early Anglo-Saxon; her dress is decorated with Persian or Greek warriors.

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More information
Title

The Magic Circle

Date

1886

Medium

Oil on canvas

Measurements

H 182.9 x W 127 cm

Accession number

N01572

Acquisition method

Presented by the Trustees of the Chantrey Bequest 1886

Work type

Painting

Inscription description

date inscribed

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