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Penelope Unraveling Her Web, 1783-4 (oil on canvas)
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Penelope Unraveling Her Web, 1783-4 (oil on canvas)
3545835 Penelope Unraveling Her Web, 1783-4 (oil on canvas) by Wright of Derby, Joseph (1734-97); 106x131.4 cm; J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles, USA; (add.info.: Josiah Wedgwood commissioned this as a tribute to female loyalty and industry. In Homers Odyssey, Penelope, awaiting the return of her husband Odysseus from the Trojan War, was beset by suitors who claimed he had been shipwrecked. She promised to marry when she completed a shroud for her father-in-law. Steadfastly loyal, Penelope unraveled her weaving at the end of each day. Their son Telemachus sleeps beside a statue of his father. ); English, out of copyright
Media ID 22981306
© Bridgeman Images
Chiaroscuro Dark Epic Homer Moonlight Odysseus Odyssey Penelope Romanticism Shade Shroud Telemachus Thread Trojan War Ulysses Unravelling
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Penelope Unraveling Her Web, 1783-4" is a captivating oil painting by Joseph Wright of Derby that beautifully captures the essence of female loyalty and industry. Commissioned by Josiah Wedgwood, this artwork pays tribute to Penelope's unwavering devotion in Homer's Odyssey. In the painting, we see Penelope diligently unraveling her weaving at the end of each day as she awaits the return of her husband Odysseus from the Trojan War. Surrounded by moonlight and set against a dark background, the scene exudes an air of mystery and romance. The use of chiaroscuro adds depth and drama to the composition. Beside Penelope lies their son Telemachus, peacefully sleeping next to a statue representing his absent father. This juxtaposition symbolizes both hope for Odysseus' safe return and the weight of his absence on their lives. Wright masterfully portrays Penelope's determination through her focused gaze and delicate hand movements as she unravels thread after thread. Her commitment to completing a shroud for her father-in-law before remarrying showcases her steadfast loyalty amidst countless suitors vying for her hand. This painting not only highlights classical mythology but also exemplifies elements of Georgian romanticism. It serves as a timeless reminder of love's endurance in challenging times while celebrating female strength and resilience throughout history. Displayed at J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, "Penelope Unraveling Her Web
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