Dame Alice Ellen Terry (choosing), by George Frederic Watts


During an engagement at the Hay market Theatre, two sisters had their portraits painted by Frederic Watts, Terry and Kate. He then proposed marriage. Above is a portrait of Terry named "choosing", Terry must select between the flowers, one symbolising showy (earthly vanities) and scentless camellias/nobler values symbolised by fragrant violets. A few other paintings by Frederic, of the sisters were created and Terry was impressed therefore she married him shortly before her 17th birthday, however Watts was at the age of 46, Terry was uncomfortable with the role of a young bride therefore they separated after ten years of marriage.

The reason in which I took interest in the picture was because it gave an impression of tranquility and beauty, the image so elegantly designed, it almost looks realistic. Flowers in a picture decorate the whole scene and brighten up the artwork dramatically with a bit more detail.