Amaryllis John William Godward (1861-1922)

The composition presents a reclining female figure in a scene suggestive of classical antiquity, yet imbued with a distinctly romantic sensibility. She rests upon a luxurious fur throw, which itself is positioned on what appears to be a marble ledge or balcony overlooking a panoramic vista. A large tiger lies beside her, its head resting near her shoulder, exhibiting an unusual degree of domesticity and apparent comfort in the woman’s presence.
The womans posture conveys languor and repose; she leans against a sculpted armrest, partially shielding her face with a feathered fan. Her attire is reminiscent of ancient Greek drapery – a flowing gown of pink and grey hues that clings to her form while allowing for graceful movement. A band adorns her forehead, suggesting an elevated social status or perhaps a symbolic connection to the classical world.
Behind her, the landscape unfolds in layers. A vibrant array of flowers spills over the edge of the balcony, contrasting with the more distant view of mountains and a shimmering body of water. The vegetation is lush and abundant, contributing to a sense of idyllic tranquility. The horizon line is punctuated by what seems to be an idealized cityscape, hinting at civilization but maintaining a certain distance from the immediate scene.
Several subtexts emerge from this arrangement. The presence of the tiger, typically associated with wildness and power, alongside the woman suggests a mastery over nature or perhaps a symbolic representation of taming primal instincts. It could also signify a connection to exotic locales and luxurious lifestyles. The classical setting evokes themes of beauty, leisure, and refinement, while the woman’s pose and expression convey a sense of melancholy or introspection – a quiet contemplation that transcends mere relaxation.
The overall effect is one of carefully constructed artifice; its not merely a depiction of a scene but an exploration of ideas surrounding femininity, power, nature, and civilization, all filtered through a lens of romantic idealism. The artist seems to be interested in creating a world where the boundaries between human and animal, wildness and refinement, are blurred, inviting contemplation on the complexities of desire, control, and beauty.