The Damsel of the Lake 1924

Frank Cadogan Cowper created this painting of a damsel with oil paint sometime in the early 20th century. Look at how the light seems to emanate from the damsel and reflect off of the fabric of her dress. It’s as if she is the source of the sun itself! I’m really drawn to the contrast between the smooth, almost porcelain-like finish on her face and the more textured, broken brushwork in the landscape and dress. It gives the painting a dreamy, otherworldly quality. Then there’s the juxtaposition of the damsel and the deer, which introduces an element of fantasy. Both are depicted with an almost photographic realism, rendered in soft, glowing colours, which remind me a little of the Pre-Raphaelites. The way Cowper balances detail with atmosphere reminds me of Edward Burne-Jones, who had a similar interest in storytelling and myth. Like Burne-Jones, Cowper leaves a lot to the imagination. After all, who is this damsel, and what is the nature of her relationship to the fawn? Ultimately, it’s up to us to decide.