Flaming June 1895

You’ve probably seen this work before – it’s one of the world’s most reproduced paintings, and can often be noticed on book covers, in prints and posters, and across social media. But this painting wasn’t always iconic… in the 1960s, it failed to sell at auction, where it was priced at just $140. So why are we now fascinated by ‘Flaming June’? 👀 ‘Flaming June’ depicts a sleeping woman, curled up on a chair against a marble background. She is dressed in brilliant orange; the warm colour palette evokes afternoon sunlight. A patch of light spills onto the marble above her head. The artist, Sir Frederic Leighton (1830-1896), carefully studied natural light to capture this golden glow. He also completed many preparatory sketches for the woman’s complex pose. Especially impressive is Lord Leighton’s technique of painting fabric so that it appears translucent. ☀️ Created in 1895, ‘Flaming June’ is among the most famous paintings in the academic style. Academicism borrowed conventions from classical (ancient Greek and Roman) art, with its proponents believing that ancient civilisations marked the pinnacle of human achievement. Here, the classical inspiration is clear – just take a look at the drapery of the woman’s dress. Her outfit is intended to remind us of classical sculpture, especially of the loose-fitting fabrics worn by goddesses. The background is also reminiscent of an ancient temple interior. 🏛️ As well as these classical details, Leighton has included some hidden symbolism in ‘Flaming June’. Take a look at the plant in the upper right corner. This small tree is rosebay, also known as oleander. While beautiful, the shrub is highly toxic to humans and animals alike. Could the artist be subtly hinting at a connection between sleep and death? 🍃 Victorian art such as ‘Flaming June’ was unfashionable in the 1960s art market, at a time when abstraction was gaining popularity. Today, however, the work attracts millions of viewers who are drawn to its quiet magnetism. The entire piece communicates serenity, and invites us to pause for a moment. 💭 Editor: Lucy Jude Grantham