John William Godward | British Neo-Classical Painter

John William Godward was born in Britain in 1861 and was a Neo-Classical/Pre-Rahaelite painter. He was said to be a protégé of Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema, but when painter like Picasso emerged then his work fell out of favour. He had a life which was full of sorrow and grief. He was so depressed with his life that after attaining the age of 61, he committed suicide and left a suicide note that “The world was not big enough” for him.

His family had already disowned him and when they got to know about John William Godward’s suicide then they felt so ashamed that they burned all his papers,photographs and belongings. No photographs of this brilliant and talented artist are known to survive. Oh! That was so tragic. I felt really so sad for him. With his suicide world had lost a gem of an artist. I wish his soul must have found the peace and love after his heavenly departure. May god rest his soul in peace.

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Click below to see John William Godward Paintings Slideshow:

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11 Comments

BInkySeptember 13, 2024 at 7:05 PM
Those are some beautiful paintings.
VenusSeptember 13, 2024 at 8:12 PM
Nice art
Dollka | imdollka.plSeptember 13, 2024 at 11:47 PM
Wow! Really amazing!
Veronica LeeSeptember 14, 2024 at 2:50 PM
What a heartbreaking story. It's so sad that such a talented artist like Godward faced so much pain and isolation. The fact that his family erased all traces of him makes it even more tragic. I hope he found the peace he couldn’t find in life. His art is his lasting legacy, even if it wasn't appreciated during his time.
Hena TayebSeptember 15, 2024 at 4:15 AM
Oh that is a tragedy. Thanks for sharing this wonderful artist with us.
snobe casamangSeptember 15, 2024 at 3:28 PM
Wow very great art.
Ivana SplitSeptember 15, 2024 at 7:44 PM
I was familiar with his paintings, but I didn't know he committed suicide.
I also didn't know his family burned his belongings.
That's so sad...but at least his art lives on forever.
JoAnna September 15, 2024 at 8:57 PM
Hello, I really like this painter and other British artists.
The woman in the orange dress reminds me of Frederic Leighton's painting "Hot June". Regards, thank you for visiting my blog.
DorisSeptember 15, 2024 at 10:37 PM
It's so sad that John William Godward's life ended in such sorrow. He was a talented artist whose work deserved more recognition. I hope he has found the peace he sought.
Królowa KaroSeptember 16, 2024 at 12:21 AM
A very distinctive style I have the impression.
Danielle BeautyblogSeptember 16, 2024 at 1:29 AM
What a tragic story but great collection! xx

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