Edward Calvert, The Bride 1828
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In this pastoral scene the sun is setting and the evening star, Venus, is shining. In the distance a shepherd drives his flock home; another, guided by the star is heading for his flock. Beneath a tree loaded with a ripe vine stands a naked woman whose form and pose are inspired by a classical statue. She leads a sheep that has strayed. The words around the edge of the image tell us that the subject is the Soul as the Bride of Christ. Calvert mixes pagan and Christian imagery to show how intense love and desire leads the search for fulfillment.
August 2004
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Edward Calvert
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