Startled Sir Frank Bernard Dicksee (1853-1928)

The composition presents a scene steeped in mythological or allegorical suggestion. Here we observe two figures – a woman and a child – emerging from dense foliage onto a grassy bank bordering a body of water. The woman, with her flowing auburn hair and nude form, appears to be leading the child, who mirrors her appearance with similar red hair and a similarly unclad state. Both are caught in mid-motion, seemingly startled or fleeing, their expressions conveying a sense of urgency and perhaps apprehension.
The woman holds aloft a translucent fabric – a veil or shawl – which billows dramatically around them, contributing to the dynamism of the scene and obscuring parts of her form. This material introduces an element of etherealness, suggesting a connection to the supernatural or dreamlike realm. The child clings to the edge of this fabric, his posture indicating both dependence and a shared sense of alarm.
The background is rendered with considerable detail, depicting a tranquil landscape bathed in golden light filtering through the trees. A distant boat rests on the water’s surface, adding depth and scale to the composition. The foliage itself is lush and vibrant, creating a visual contrast between the figures exposed skin and the surrounding abundance of nature.
The painting evokes themes of protection, vulnerability, and perhaps a disruption of idyllic harmony. The woman’s role as protector is evident in her leading position and concerned expression; however, their nudity suggests a loss of innocence or exposure to an unknown threat. The startled quality of their movement implies a sudden intrusion into their world – a chase, a discovery, or the unveiling of a hidden truth.
The artists use of light and color contributes significantly to the overall mood. The warm tones create a sense of nostalgia and beauty, while the dramatic lighting highlights the figures’ expressions and emphasizes their emotional state. The composition as a whole suggests a narrative – a fleeting moment captured in time – leaving room for interpretation regarding the nature of the threat they are fleeing and the significance of the veil that shields them.