Tate video reveals curse of The Lady of Shalott in Waterhouse trilogy
A new video from Tate London explores John William Waterhouse's 1888 painting 'The Lady of Shalott,' the third in a trilogy based on Alfred Lord Tennyson's poem. The video analyzes the symbolism of objects in the work—from the tapestry to flowers, birds, and water surface—and recounts the story of a woman cursed to remain in a tower, only seeing the world through a mirror. Her decision to look directly outside and leave, driven by love, leads to her death. The painting is held by Tate.
Key facts
- John William Waterhouse painted The Lady of Shalott in 1888.
- The painting is the third in a trilogy based on Alfred Lord Tennyson's poem.
- Tate London produced the video analyzing the painting's symbolism.
- The painting is held at Tate London.
- The story is set in the legendary kingdom of King Arthur at Camelot.
- The protagonist is cursed to stay in a tower and can only see the world through a mirror.
- She leaves the tower driven by love, which leads to her death.
- The video details objects like the tapestry, flowers, birds, and water surface.
Entities
Artists
- John William Waterhouse
Institutions
- Tate London
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom