The Princess Sabra Led to the Dragon Painting 1866

Edward Burne-Jones painted 'The Princess Sabra Led to the Dragon' sometime in the late nineteenth century. Oil on canvas has been worked here to emphasize the subdued tonality of the scene, as well as the symbolic weight of the princess’s fate. Burne-Jones was deeply involved in the Arts and Crafts movement, which prioritized handcraft and aesthetic beauty over industrial production, and this painting reflects that sensibility. Notice how the folds of the women's robes are rendered with careful attention, creating a rich visual texture. The artist’s detailed approach imbues the figures with a tactile presence, almost as if they were sculptures brought to life. The choice of oil paint itself is significant. Unlike the slick surfaces often associated with academic painting, Burne-Jones uses the material to create a matte finish. This makes the scene feel more intimate and personal, inviting us to contemplate the narrative and the emotions of its characters. In Burne-Jones's work, material and making are essential to understanding the story he wished to tell, bridging the divide between fine art and craft.