Imogen Found in the Cave of Belarius Possibly 1809

Editor: So, this is George Dawe's "Imogen Found in the Cave of Belarius," housed here at the Tate. The scene feels quite dramatic, with a lot of darkness. What symbols do you see at play here? Curator: Notice how Dawe uses the cave as a symbol? It represents a space of both danger and refuge. The sleeping Imogen, cradled by her would-be killers, echoes classical depictions of death and resurrection. Does that resonate with you? Editor: Yes, definitely the way she's posed makes me think of classical sculpture. The figures and dogs, are they meant to evoke something specific, too? Curator: The dogs, loyal and watchful, could symbolize fidelity and protection. Belarius himself embodies wisdom, a patriarch safeguarding a secret past. Consider how these figures, illuminated against the dark backdrop, create an emotional pull, a memory carried across time. What do you take away from that? Editor: I see it now, a story told through familiar forms, made new again.