The Light Shineth in Darkness and the Darkness Comprehendeth It Not
Evelyn contrasts a radiant angel looking down in judgement at three cowering figures chained to the earth by iron shackles. Her concern for society’s diminishing faith is seen through these bodies as they cover their eyes and block their ears, closing themselves off from enlightenment. Taken from the Gospels of St John 1:5, the title conveys this growing detachment from religion as society became more secular. Evelyn uses the brilliance of the angel’s orb-like rainbow aureole (a halo of light) against the murky darkness of purgatory whilst pained souls cower from the angel’s downward judgmental gaze, curling limply away from her.
1906
Oil on canvas
P_EDM_0013
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The Light Shineth in Darkness and the Darkness Comprehendeth It Not
Decoration or Devotion: William and Evelyn De Morgan
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