Overview
Yearning and desire - for a loved one, an unrequited love, a way
of life long gone - underlies many of the paintings in
Victorian Tales of Love and Enchantment.
During the 19th century, exploration and archaeological
discoveries illustrated much about ancient cultures. These led to
the development of a new movement - Aestheticism - focusing on
beauty for its own sake, rather than for historical narrative.
Other artists were fascinated by the mystique surrounding the great
queens of antiquity and the heroes of mythology.
Scenes of modern life were equally popular. Painting was a
powerful tool, a writer in The Athenium noting, 'It is our
firm conviction that the artist's pencil has done more to create
sympathy and consideration for those whose fortunes and sufferings
have been its theme, than a host of pamphleteers could have
worked.'
While industrial development ultimately brought massive wealth
to Britain, Death, the great leveller, waited in the wings whether
you were rich or poor. Lovers separated by death longed for the
joyous renewal awaiting them in the next world; the tragic demise
of romantic figures from the past creating a powerful link with the
present.
East Gallery, Mezzanine
Free entry
Please note this exhibition will close temporarily from
Monday 22 April - Friday 26 April as we prepare for the 5th
Auckland Triennial.
Image: Frank Bramley, For of such is the Kingdom of
Heaven, 1891
oil on canvas, Mackelvie Trust Collection, Auckland Art Gallery
Toi o Tāmaki, purchased 1913