Expectation John William Godward (1861-1922)

Here we observe a scene steeped in languid expectation and symbolic tension. A young woman reclines upon a marble bench, draped with the pelt of a tiger. Her posture is one of studied repose; her elbow rests on the bench, supporting her head, while her gaze drifts towards an unseen point beyond the frame. The dress she wears, a flowing terracotta garment belted at the waist, suggests both classical elegance and a degree of relaxed informality.
The setting itself contributes significantly to the paintings atmosphere. A balustraded terrace overlooks a Mediterranean landscape – a vista of azure sea and verdant foliage punctuated by lush vegetation. This backdrop evokes an environment of privilege and leisure, reinforcing the woman’s apparent idleness. The architectural elements, with their clean lines and classical detailing, further emphasize this sense of cultivated refinement.
The tiger skin is undoubtedly the most striking element beyond the central figure. Its presence introduces a potent undercurrent of wildness and potential danger into an otherwise serene environment. It serves as both a luxurious adornment and a stark reminder of primal power – a subdued threat lying beneath the veneer of civilization. The discarded fan at the foot of the bench, partially obscured by the tiger skin, hints at a moment interrupted or a fleeting fancy.
In the background, a stone bust depicting a male face is visible amongst the foliage. Its expression appears melancholic and watchful, adding another layer to the painting’s narrative ambiguity. Is it a guardian? A lost lover? Or simply an ornamental detail meant to enhance the overall aesthetic?
The subtexts within this composition are numerous. The womans posture suggests anticipation – she is waiting for something or someone. The tiger skin could symbolize dominion over nature, but also vulnerability; she lies upon a predator, seemingly unafraid, yet inherently exposed. The bust’s mournful gaze introduces an element of pathos and perhaps regret. Overall, the painting explores themes of power, beauty, anticipation, and the complex relationship between civilization and the untamed world – a delicate balance poised on the edge of revelation or disappointment.