St. George and the Dragon is a captivating painting created by the renowned artist Edward Burne-Jones in 1866. This artwork exemplifies the ideals of the Pre-Raphaelite movement, showcasing a blend of mythological themes and romanticism that characterized the era.
The Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, founded in 1848, sought to challenge the conventions of academic art. They aimed to return to the detail, intense colors, and complex compositions of art before the High Renaissance. This movement was a reaction against the industrialization of society and the perceived decline of artistic standards.
Edward Burne-Jones (1833-1898) was a pivotal figure in the Pre-Raphaelite movement. Initially studying theology, he shifted his focus to art, influenced by his friendship with William Morris. His works often reflect a deep interest in mythology and medieval themes, which he interpreted through a romantic lens.
Victorian artists frequently drew upon mythology to explore themes of heroism, morality, and the human condition. In St. George and the Dragon, Burne-Jones uses the legendary tale to symbolize the eternal struggle between good and evil, resonating with the Victorian audience’s fascination with chivalry and virtue.
Burne-Jones employed a rich color palette dominated by deep reds, greens, and golds. His brushwork is characterized by smooth, flowing lines that create a sense of harmony and movement within the composition.
The figures of St. George and the dragon serve as powerful symbols. St. George represents valor and righteousness, while the dragon embodies chaos and evil. This duality reflects the moral struggles prevalent in Victorian society.
St. George is depicted as a noble knight, clad in shining armor. His confident posture and determined expression convey his role as a protector and hero.
The dragon, with its menacing form and fiery breath, symbolizes the darker forces of the world. Its intricate scales and fierce eyes evoke a sense of danger and dread.
The princess, often portrayed in delicate attire, represents purity and innocence. Her expression of fear and hope adds emotional depth to the narrative, highlighting the stakes of the battle.
Burne-Jones skillfully employs chiaroscuro to create depth and dimension. The contrast between light and shadow enhances the dramatic tension of the scene.
He utilized impasto to add texture to the dragon’s scales and the knight’s armor, while glazing techniques provided a luminous quality to the colors, enriching the overall visual experience.
Burne-Jones drew inspiration from medieval art, evident in his use of flat patterns and stylized forms. This influence is particularly notable in the decorative elements surrounding the main figures.
The painting encapsulates the archetypal hero’s journey, illustrating the theme of overcoming adversity through courage and determination.
Religious symbolism permeates the work, with St. George’s battle against the dragon representing the eternal conflict between good and evil, a theme resonant in Christian teachings.
Burne-Jones" portrayal of idealized characters reflects the Victorian longing for a romanticized past, where chivalry and noble deeds were celebrated.
Upon its unveiling, St. George and the Dragon received mixed reviews. Some critics praised its beauty and craftsmanship, while others dismissed it as overly sentimental.
The painting has influenced numerous artists and movements, inspiring a resurgence of interest in mythological themes and romantic ideals in modern art.
St. George and the Dragon is currently housed in the Leighton House Museum in London, where it is preserved and displayed for public viewing.
Many of Burne-Jones" works, such as The Golden Stairs and The Last Sleep of Arthur in Avalon, explore similar themes of heroism, mythology, and the idealized human experience.
While Burne-Jones focused on mythological subjects, other Pre-Raphaelite artists like Dante Gabriel Rossetti often emphasized literary themes and sensuality, showcasing the diversity within the movement.
As of now, St. George and the Dragon is part of the permanent collection at the Leighton House Museum, with occasional special exhibitions highlighting Burne-Jones" work.
Visitors can view the painting at the Leighton House Museum, which offers guided tours and educational programs about Burne-Jones and the Pre-Raphaelite movement.
St. George and the Dragon continues to resonate with audiences today, symbolizing the timeless struggle between good and evil and the heroic spirit.
Edward Burne-Jones" legacy endures as a significant contributor to the Pre-Raphaelite movement, influencing future generations of artists and continuing to inspire discussions about art, mythology, and morality.
Maria Rodriguez, Research Director
Maria leads our research team, ensuring comprehensive coverage of diverse artistic traditions. Her work focuses on expanding representation of non-Western art in our database.
Specialization: Global Art History, Latin American Art
St. George and the Dragon by Edward Burne-Jones
