What’s Behind this Woman’s Enigmatic Expression?

Uncovering the story captured in this notorious painting

Medea (1868) by Frederick Sandys. Oil on wood panel with gilded background. 61.2 x 45.6 cm. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, UK. Image source Birmingham Museums Trust (open access)

Love stories in Greek mythology are often marked by doomed or tragic outcomes. The story of Medea and Jason is no exception, and is among the most emotive of them all.

This outstanding painting made by Frederick Sandys, shows a tormented Medea as she prepares a poison for her rival, Glauce, whom Jason has deserted her for.

Clawing at the beads around her neck, her eyes gaze out in mesmerised horror. Behind her, scenes from her ill-fated love affair play out like gilded memories that time won’t dislodge.

This highly-charged portrait of Medea was one of the greatest paintings Sandys ever made. It also achieved notoriety. But why?

Medea and Her Doomed Love

Detail of ‘Medea’ (1868) by Frederick Sandys. Oil on wood panel with gilded background. 61.2 x 45.6 cm. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, UK. Image source Birmingham Museums Trust (open access)

Medea was known in Greek myth as an intelligent and passionate woman who had the power of sorcery.

Her story is recounted in several ancient texts, but it is most notably featured in the epic poem Argonautica by Apollonius of Rhodes, detailing Jason’s quest for the Golden Fleece and…