John William Waterhouse
Oil on canvas. c.1883

It was in 1883 that Waterhouse turned to the Roman Empire for his first major exercise in history. The Victorian painter was constantly seeking an unusual or startling subject to make his next Exhibit stand out from the rest, but he was never outrageous or shocking. They were the result of his own reading and interpretations of history, and the paintings demonstrate his profound involvement with them.
Flavius Honorius is neither one of the most admirable or celebrated figures of Ancient Rome. He assumed the throne in 395 AD, styling himself Emperor of the West. His first court was established at Milan, and then in fear of a Barbaric invasion, at Ravenna. Undynamic and lazy, he relied on able generals such as Constantius and his wifes father Stilicho ( a Vandal himself ) to protect Italy from the hostile invaders. The only sign of effort on his part was the support of the established Church and as a consequence the persecution of heathens and heretics.
Again, the picture's composition is meticulously organised at once directing the eye, and in doing so explaining the situation. Investigation into the preliminary work reveals that Nino was a painter and a visualiser, as opposed to a draughtsman and designer.
Honorius and his pets, the favourites, occupy their own space. He is defined and restricted by the darkness of the carpet and his garments, while the others are palely garbed. A situation fraught with tension is suggested. The attendant and councillors stiff and tense, half bent with servility, have their eyes fixed anxiously on the Emperor. He is totally relaxed, seemingly unaware of their presence. The enormity of the mental chasm between them is revealed by their expressions and attitudes, whilst Nino has completed the separation using the substantial column in the centre.
The ultimate subtle combination of all the forces, is the placing of the golden tray in Honorius's left hand, forming the final barrier to communication. As seen time and again in Waterhouse's painting, it is the moment in time looked for,chosen and then put to canvas, which demonstrates his genius. C.G.

Size: 60 x 100cm

Price: £525  00     # JWW009