Description
Ford Madox Brown's painting "The Shield of Many Colours" is a masterpiece of Victorian art that has captivated art lovers for more than a century. This artwork is one of the most iconic of the Pre-Raphaelite movement, which was characterized by its detailed style and obsession with nature and mythology.
The composition of the painting is impressive, with a great amount of detail that can be seen in every corner of the work. The shield itself is a work of art, with a wealth of symbols and figures representing the history and mythology of England. The central figure is Saint George, the patron saint of England, who is depicted in a wealth of detail and vibrant colour.
Color is one of the highlights of painting. Brown used a bright and vibrant color palette to create a work of art that is both beautiful and powerful. Colors are mixed and matched in a way that creates a sense of movement and energy in the work.
The story behind the painting is equally fascinating. Brown began work on the work in 1856, and it took over ten years to complete. The painting was commissioned by businessman John Miller, who wanted a shield that represented the history and mythology of England. The work was first exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1867, and was a great success.
There are many little-known aspects of the painting that make it even more interesting. For example, Brown used his wife Emma as the model for the Fairy Queen figure, which is found at the bottom of the shield. Additionally, the painting was restored in the 1990s, and Brown was found to have used a painting technique uncommon at the time, which involved layering transparent paint to create an effect of depth and lightness.