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John William Waterhouse completed this allegorical scene showing Sleep (Hypnos) with his half-brother Death (Thanatos) from Greek mythology. The languid figures rest together, embodying the ancient connection between sleep and death. Waterhouse's romantic style brings classical myth to life.
Waterhouse frequently drew on mythology and literature for his subjects. His sensuous figures and rich color connect to Pre-Raphaelite tradition. This painting remains in a private collection.

John William Waterhouse
Sheffield Galleries and Museums, Sheffield, Sheffield

John William Waterhouse
Tate Britain, London

John William Waterhouse
Private Collection, Unknown

John William Waterhouse
Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA), Adelaide, Adelaide
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