When did Herbert James Draper develop the composition for The Lament for Icarus?
Herbert James Draper developed the composition for The Lament for Icarus during the 1890s. He focused mainly on ancient Greek mythological subjects at that time.
Herbert James Draper developed the composition for The Lament for Icarus during the 1890s. He focused mainly on ancient Greek mythological subjects at that time.
Herbert James Draper employed four young professional models named Ethel Gurden, Ethel Warwick, Florence Bird and Luigi di Luca. Their names appear in records of his work from this period.
The painting was bought from the Royal Academy exhibition through public funds via the Chantrey Bequest fund bequeathed by Sir Francis Leggatt Chantrey. This money supported purchasing modern art for the nation.
The Lament for Icarus won the gold medal at the Exposition Universelle of 1900 in Paris. This international recognition followed its initial acquisition by British public funds.
Draper gave Icarus his wings fully intact contrary to Ovid's description where wax melted during the fall. The artist utilized the winged creature image to create a more symbolic appearance that prioritized aesthetic beauty over strict adherence to ancient texts.