John Duncan: Tristan and Isolde, 1912

John Duncan (1866-1945) was born in Dundee and studied at the Dundee School of Art from an early age. He was a great experimenter with techniques and much of his work is in tempera. His subject-matter was rooted in the Celtic Revival and the Pre-Raphaelite tradition, but there is a certain graphical quality which sets it apart from his contemporaries and likens it to Art Nouveau. While the subject matter is thoroughly Celtic Revival, he is generally referred to as a Symbolist.

Isolde, Princess of Ireland, has been entrusted to the care of Tristan, the nephew of the king of Cornwall, to take her safely to Cornwall to marry the king. However, Tristan loves Isolde himself and Isolde loves him in return. Tristan and Isolde decide to die together rather then be separated and choose to drink a poison. However, unbeknown to them the poison was switched for a love potion. After they both drink it they fall even more madly in love and run off together into the forest. Tristan and Isolde, is a legend depicted in many Victorian paintings.

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HC-1143: card size 6" x 6" (150mm x 150mm)