AFTER JOHN WILLIAM WATERHOUSE,
HYLAS & THE NYMPHS
oil on canvas
image size 61cm x 91.5cm, overall size 77cm x 107cm
Framed.
Note: Hylas was the son of King Theiodamas of the Dryopians. After Hercules killed Hylas's father, Hylas became a companion of Hercules and later his lover. They both became Argonauts, accompanying Jason in his quest on his ship Argo in seeking the Golden Fleece. During the journey, Hylas was sent to find freshwater. He found a pond occupied by Naiads, and they lured Hylas into the water and he disappeared. In this painting, Hylas is bending down beside a pond in a glade of lush green foliage, reaching out towards seven young women, the water nymphs, who are emerging from the pond among the leaves water lilies. Hylas is being enticed to enter the water, from which he will not return. One of the nymphs holds his wrist and elbow, a second plucks at his tunic, and a third holds out some pearls in the palm of her hand. The face of Hylas is shadowed and barely visible, but the faces of the nymphs are clearly visible as they gaze upon him.

Condition Report

Condition is good overall, with no visible signs of restoration, damage, or known issues. Image size 61cm x 91.5cm, overall size 77cm x 107cm, as stated in lot description. There is no signature present.