Boreas - Waterhouse

Boreas, painted by John William Waterhouse in 1903, is a representative work of the Pre-Raphaelite movement, which was inspired by mythology and classical literature to recreate scenes full of symbolism.

In this painting, John portrays a young woman caught by the north wind, personified by the Greek god Boreas, reflecting the artist's fascination with capturing the power and beauty of nature. The female figure, dressed in flowing fabrics, seems to struggle against the wind, a typical feature of Waterhouse's compositions, where women play a central role in situations of vulnerability or emotional ecstasy. The Pre-Raphaelite movement is characterized by its attention to detail, use of vibrant colors, and a narrative that connects the natural with the supernatural, aspects that are evident in this painting. Additionally, the dynamism of the wind and its interaction with the landscape foreshadow the 20th-century art's interest in movement and the perception of an ever-changing environment. With this work, Waterhouse continued his exploration of the female figure as a metaphor for forces beyond human control, a recurring theme in his artistic career.