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The Answer

Discover "The Answer" by John William Godward – a stunning 1917 oil painting of a woman in classical robes. Romantic & Neoclassical style, serene seascape, and exquisite detail. A timeless piece for art collectors.

Explore John William Godward (1861-1922), a Victorian Neo-Classical painter famed for beautiful women in classical settings. Discover his meticulous detail & Alma-Tadema influence. #NeoClassicism #VictorianArt

Hand Made Oil Reproduction

Hand-painted oil on canvas in your size and frame, made to order by our artists. ( Switch to Print Switch to Digital Image)

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Total Price

$ 300

The Answer

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Reproduction Size

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Total Price

$ 300

The Answer is an oil on canvas painting by the English painter John William Godward. It is painted in 1917. The vast majority of Godward's extant images feature women in Classical dress, posed against these landscape features, though there are some semi-nude and fully nude figures. Godward devoted his whole life to painting girls in classical robes, usually posing decoratively on a marble terrace. The painting (76.2 × 76.2 cm) is now in Private collection.

Questions & Answers

How intense are the colors in "The Answer" by R.B.A John William Godward?

The colors in "The Answer" by R.B.A John William Godward have a balanced intensity.

Can I see "The Answer" by R.B.A John William Godward on my own wall before buying?

"The Answer" has an augmented reality preview: the artwork's AR Preview page shows it in your own space on a compatible device.

Where does "The Answer" stand among R.B.A John William Godward's recurring subjects?

"The Answer" depicts classical woman, seascape setting, elegant portrait, marble interior, romantic mood, timeless beauty, contemplative figure, golden frame art, while R.B.A John William Godward's recorded themes are godward's signature style, recurring female figures, domestic tranquility, classical antiquity, romanticism ideals, neoclassical grace, female idealization, serene contemplation. Comparing the two shows how the work relates to the artist's usual subjects.


Artist Biography

John William Godward: A Victorian Neo-Classical Master

Early Life and Background

  • Born: August 9, 1861, Wimbledon, England.
  • Died: December 13, 1922, London, England.
  • John William Godward was the eldest of five children born to John Godward, an investment clerk, and Sarah Eboral.
  • His early life was marked by a reclusive nature, largely attributed to his parents’ overbearing personalities. This introversion profoundly influenced his artistic sensibilities.

Artistic Development and Influences

  • Early Training: Godward received formal art training, though specific details remain scarce due to the destruction of his personal papers.
  • Key Influences: He was heavily influenced by Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema and Frederic Leighton, both prominent figures in Victorian Neo-Classicism.
  • Like Alma-Tadema, Godward demonstrated a meticulous attention to detail in rendering classical architecture and textures. However, he developed his own distinct style characterized by vibrant colors and idealized depictions of beauty.

Career and Major Works

  • Royal Academy Exhibitions: Godward first exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1887, marking the beginning of his public recognition.
  • Notable Paintings:
    • Dolce far Niente (1904): Perhaps his most famous work, purchased by Andrew Lloyd Webber in 1995.
    • When the Heart is Young (1902): Exemplifies Godward’s ability to capture youthful innocence and beauty.
    • The Mirror (1899): Showcases his skill in contrasting textures and creating a sense of depth.
    • In the Tepidarium (1913): A semi-nude figure demonstrating his versatility within the Neo-Classical genre.
    • Athenais: A stunning example of his idealized female figures in classical settings.
  • Move to Italy: In 1912, Godward moved to Rome with one of his models, a decision that led to estrangement from his family.

Style and Themes

  • Neo-Classical Style: Godward’s work is characterized by its adherence to classical forms, themes, and aesthetics.
  • Recurring Motifs: He frequently depicted beautiful women in classical attire, often engaged in moments of repose or contemplation.
  • Technical Mastery: Godward was renowned for his meticulous attention to detail, particularly in rendering textures such as marble, fur, and fabrics. His use of vibrant colors further distinguished his style.
  • He is often described as a ‘High Victorian Dreamer’ due to the idealized and romanticized nature of his paintings.

Tragic End and Legacy

  • Death: Godward tragically took his own life in 1922 at the age of 61.
  • Family Reaction: His family, ashamed of his suicide, destroyed his papers and attempted to erase his memory.
  • Historical Significance: Despite the attempts to suppress his legacy, Godward’s work has experienced a resurgence in popularity. He remains a significant figure in Victorian Neo-Classicism, celebrated for his technical skill, idealized beauty, and evocative depictions of classical themes.

Quick Facts

  • Name: John William Godward
  • Movement: Neo-Classicism, Victorian painting
  • Birth Date: 1861
  • Death Date: 1922
  • Nationality: British
  • Date Of Birth: 1861
  • Date Of Death: 1922
  • Influenced By:
    • Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema
    • Frederic Leighton
  • Notable Works:
    • Dolce far Niente
    • When the Heart is Young
    • The Mirror
    • In the Tepidarium
    • Athenais
    • Expectancy
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