Where can I see Orpheus and Eurydice?

The work displayed at the Leighton House Museum in Kensington, London. The museum purchased it in 1960.

What myth does this painting depict?

The painting shows Orpheus and Eurydice from Greek mythology. Orpheus has just looked back at his wife, breaking his promise and condemning her to remain in the underworld.

What are the dimensions of this painting?

The painting measures 168.3 x 151 cm (approximately 66 x 59 inches). It's an oil on canvas work from 1864.

Why was this painting controversial?

Leighton's unconventional interpretation confused Victorian audiences. Rather than showing obvious grief, Orpheus appears repulsed by his own failure while Eurydice comforts him.

Where Is Orpheus and Eurydice? Museum Location

Frederic Leighton executed this Orpheus and Eurydice in 1864, offering an unconventional interpretation of the Greek myth. The painting shows the moment when Orpheus has turned to look at Eurydice during their escape from the underworld, condemning her to remain among the dead. What seems like disdain on his face is really his repulsion at his own actions, the realization of what he has done.

Eurydice, rather than showing despair, appears to comfort the distraught Orpheus. She has accepted her fate and wants him to know she willingly returns to the underworld. This interpretation confused Victorian audiences, who expected more conventional dramatic expression. The painting was the least popular of eight works Leighton showed at the Royal Academy's 1864 exhibition.

Critics praised Leighton's technical skill but questioned his dramatic interpretation. Over time, the painting has come to be regarded as one of his major works. It measures 168.3 x 151 cm and was purchased by the Leighton House Museum in 1960. The museum, dedicated to Leighton's life and work, provides the ideal setting for this exploration of mythological tragedy.