Lamia
Lamia - John William Waterhouse (1849–1917) - Private Collection
Date: 1909
Medium: Oil on Canvas
Dimensions: 91.4 x 57.1 cm
Medium: Oil on Canvas
Dimensions: 91.4 x 57.1 cm
Painted in 1909, Lamia is the second composition undertaken by John William Waterhouse to depict the figure from Greek mythology.
Painted with oil on canvas, Lamia depicts the queen of Ancient Libya, who was either the daughter or granddaughter of Poseidon. The beauty of Lamia would attract the attention of Zeus, who took Lamia as his lover. Hera, would become aware of her husband's infidelity and the goddess abducts the children of Lamia and Zeus, causing the Libyan queen to go mad. Subsequently, Lamia would abduct the children of other couples, and eat upon their flesh. This monstrous behaviour would result in Lamia being transformed into a monster. More information about Lamia can be found here - (website opens in new window) John William Waterhouse |
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Born: 6 April, 1849; Rome
Died: 10 February, 1917: London
Nationality: British
Art Movement: Pre-Raphaelite
Painting School: Royal Academy of Art
Died: 10 February, 1917: London
Nationality: British
Art Movement: Pre-Raphaelite
Painting School: Royal Academy of Art