Student Artwork Guide
Copyright This work is in the public domain. Daniel Maclise died in 1870; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it ended in 1940.
In context
Madeline after prayer — Daniel Maclise
Shaded: the lifetime of Daniel Maclise (1806–1870)
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About this artwork
Madeline after prayer — Daniel Maclise
Daniel Maclise, an Irish history, literary, and portrait painter, as well as illustrator, created the captivating painting Madeline after Prayer in 1868. This oil on canvas masterpiece is a testament to his skill in capturing serene moments with great detail.
Maclise drew inspiration from John Keats's poem "The Eve of St. Agnes," which tells the story of Madeline, a maiden who hopes to dream of her future husband after prayer. The painting depicts Madeline in a peaceful bedroom setting, surrounded by elements that reflect her religious and artistic inclinations.
- Books and Guitar: Two books are visible in the scene, one near the center and another towards the left side. A guitar is also present on the left side, adding a musical element to the room. - Chairs and Clock: There are three chairs in the bedroom, with one located at the far right, another closer to the middle, and the third chair situated further back in the scene. A clock can be seen hanging on the wall above Madeline's head, indicating the time of day. - Madeline's Portrait: The woman appears to be sitting on the edge of her bed while holding a book. She has long hair that falls down her back.
Maclise's work came close to the Pre-Raphaelite style late in his career, as seen in Madeline after Prayer. The detailed setting and proximity to the main figure distinguish this conception from John Everett Millais’s 1863 version of the subject.
This painting is part of the collection at the Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool. For those interested in acquiring a handmade oil painting reproduction of Madeline after Prayer, AllPaintingsStore.com offers high-quality reproductions made from 100% cotton canvas with modern machines.
Daniel Maclise's Madeline after Prayer is a serene and detailed portrait that captures the essence of a peaceful moment. The painting's elements, inspired by Keats's poem, create a captivating scene that reflects Madeline's hopes and dreams.
Painting by 'Daniel Maclise' | Daniel Maclise:Madeline after prayer (Drawing,)
Daniel Maclise - Wikipedia
Artist and museum
Born in Cork, Ireland
Born: January 25, 1806, Cork, Ireland
Died: April 25, 1870, London, England
Parents: Alexander McLish (tanner/shoemaker) and Rebecca McLeish
Early education in Cork; showed artistic talent from a young age.
Studied at the Cork School of Art, focusing on drawing and anatomy.
Self-funded move to London in 1827 to pursue art studies.
Entered the Royal Academy Schools in 1828, excelling in life drawing and history painting.
Rapidly gained recognition for his portrait skills, notably depicting Charles Kean and Niccolò Paganini.
Contributed significantly to Fraser's Magazine under the pseudonym "Alfred Croquis," creating a series of character portraits that enhanced his reputation.
Became an Associate of the Royal Academy in 1835 and a full member in 1840.
Notable Works:
The Meeting of Wellington and Blücher after the Battle of Waterloo (located at Westminster Palace)
The Death of Nelson (located at Westminster Palace) – A monumental fresco considered one of his masterpieces.
The Chivalric Vow of the Ladies and the Peacock
Illustrations for Charles Dickens' Christmas books and other works.
Maclise’s style blended historical narrative with elements of realism and portraiture.
Influenced by French and classical art, particularly after his visit to Paris in 1830.
His work often depicted scenes from history, literature (Shakespeare), and mythology.
Demonstrated a keen eye for detail and characterization in both portraits and historical compositions.
Intense dedication to his art took a toll on his health.
Declined the presidency of the Royal Academy in 1865 due to declining health.
Died in Chelsea, London, in 1870.
A memoir was published by William Justin O'Driscoll in 1871.
Maclise’s murals at Westminster Palace remain significant contributions to British art and architecture.
His illustrations for Dickens helped popularize the author's works.
Considered a key figure in Victorian-era history painting, bridging the gap between Neoclassicism and Realism.
Maclise played a crucial role in documenting significant historical events and figures for a wider audience.
His work reflects the cultural and artistic trends of the 19th century, particularly the Victorian era's fascination with history and literature.
He helped establish the tradition of large-scale narrative painting within British art.
His contributions to Westminster Palace’s decoration are integral to the building's aesthetic and symbolic importance.
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Look closely
Madeline after prayer — Daniel Maclise
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