Clytemnestra
John Collier (1850–1934)
1882
Oil on canvas
Collection: Guildhall Art Gallery, London. No. 577. Presented by Mrs. Mary Harrison, 1893.
“Clytemnestra was the wife of Agamemnon, commander of the Greek forced which besieged Troy after the abduction of Helen. Before leaving, Agamemnon sacrificed their youngest daughter Iphigenia to ensure a fabourable wind fot his fleet. When he returned with Cassandra, the captured daughter of King Priam of Troy, Clytemnestra murdered them both in revenge.”
“The dramatic image reflects Collier's interest in the theatre. He shows Clytemnestra with blood-spattered garments, moments after the murder.” — Guildhall Art Gallery
[Click on image to enlarge it.]
Photograph and formatting by George P. Landow.
