Ferdinand Lured by Ariel 1850

Sir John Everett Millais's Pre-Raphaelite painting, "Ferdinand Lured by Ariel," depicts a scene from Shakespeare's "The Tempest." The young Ferdinand, dressed in red and white, is captivated by the magical Ariel, a spirit who appears as a green blur in the background. The painting, characterized by its detailed brushwork and lush foliage, captures the enchantment and intrigue of the play's central love story. The use of light and shadow creates a sense of mystery and wonder, mirroring the supernatural elements of the play. This painting exemplifies the Pre-Raphaelite movement's commitment to realism and its emphasis on nature and mythology.