Faith c. 1890 - 1896

Editor: Here we have George Frederic Watts’s striking allegorical painting, Faith. I’m immediately drawn to the figure’s upward gaze and the broken lyre. How do you interpret this work? Curator: It’s a powerful piece, isn’t it? For me, the upward gaze signifies hope beyond earthly limitations, while the broken lyre suggests a loss or a trial of faith. But, look closer – are those flowers sprouting on the lyre? Editor: I see them now! Small white blossoms. That's... unexpected. Curator: Exactly! Watts is suggesting that even in despair, faith can bring forth new life, new beginnings. It's a reminder that faith isn't passive; it's a resilient force. Perhaps the red dress speaks to such force, what do you think? Editor: I didn’t quite see it that way at first. Thinking about the symbolism definitely deepens the experience. Curator: It does for me too! There is so much to unpack here...