The First Madness of Ophelia (Horatio Discovering the Madness of Ophelia)

Dante Gabriel Rossetti (1828-1882)

1864

Watercolour & gum arabic on paper

H 39.4 x W 29.2 cm

Collection: Gallery Oldham, accession no.3.55/7

Given by Marjory Lees, 1952

Horatio's tender sympathy, King Claudius's consternation and Gertrude's concern are all evident here, while flowers drop from the hand of lost-looking Ophelia. The brightly coloured and patterned background and costumes in medieval style, and the flowery circlet on Ophelia's head, all contrast vividly with her vapid, unfocused gaze. Ophelia is clearly modelled by Elizabeth Siddal.

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