Cadmus and Harmonia Evelyn De Morgan (1855-1919)

The composition presents a solitary female figure centrally positioned against a landscape backdrop. She stands with a posture that suggests both vulnerability and defiance; her gaze is directed outward, yet her body seems subtly restrained by the serpentine forms entwined around it. The womans skin possesses an almost porcelain quality, contrasting sharply with the darker tones of the surrounding environment. Her hair, a cascade of golden strands, frames a face marked by a melancholic expression.
The most striking element is undoubtedly the presence of several snakes that coil around her limbs and torso. These are not depicted as threatening or aggressive; rather, they appear to be an integral part of her being, almost extensions of her own form. Their scales shimmer with an iridescent quality, drawing attention to their sinuous movements.
The landscape behind the figure is rendered in a muted palette, suggesting distance and perhaps isolation. A body of water reflects the sky, creating a sense of vastness and tranquility that contrasts with the intensity of the central subject. The terrain is uneven, marked by rocky outcrops and patches of verdant vegetation, hinting at an untamed natural world.
Subtextually, the painting seems to explore themes of transformation, constraint, and perhaps even acceptance. The snakes could be interpreted as symbols of wisdom, temptation, or a burden carried with stoic grace. Their presence suggests a connection to ancient mythology and primordial forces. The woman’s nudity might signify innocence, exposure, or a rejection of societal norms. Her expression conveys a complex mix of emotions – sadness, resignation, but also an underlying strength.
The overall effect is one of quiet drama and symbolic weight. It invites contemplation on the nature of beauty, suffering, and the enduring power of mythic narratives.