Date: 1907
Medium: Oil on canvas
Size: 134 x 107 cm
Location:
Waterhouse's oil painting Jason and Medea is a classic example of his work. This depiction of the Colchian princess Medea preparing a magic potion is a great example of his use of Greek literature. The facial expressions of the two figures match those found in Greek literature. This painting shares similarities with the famous Magic Circle by John William Waterhouse. In the painting, Medea is seen meditating and contemplating a magic potion while Jason waits patiently for his potion.
This story is a classic story of love and betrayal. Jason was the leader of the Argonauts, and Medea was his wife. Their love affair ended tragically, and the two met again. The young couple had two children together. Later, however, Jason betrayed her and left her in an attempt to get Glauce. The couple had many children together, but later divorced. During the second marriage, Medea killed the children. While Waterhouse portrayed the female character as an empowered woman, he did not have any children.
The characters in the play are both important to the story. The story revolves around a feisty woman who gives up her power to betray her husband. In the end, she also saves the lives of her children. The story shows a tragic love between these two characters. The lovable couple are both tragic in their own ways. Fortunately, Waterhouse's work includes many notable figures from the ancient world.