Jason and Medea is an oil painting in the Pre-Raphaelite style created by John William Waterhouse in 1907.
The painting depicts the Colchian princess, Medea, preparing a magic potion for Jason to enable him to complete the tasks set for him by her father, Aeëtes.
Medea's determined facial expression shows a characterization consistent with that of Greek literature, particularly Euripides' tragedy Medea.
The painting is thematically and visually similar to Waterhouse's The Magic Circle.
Analysis Description and composition The painting visualises Jason watching Medea prepare a potion for him to give to the Colchian Dragon guarding the Golden Fleece. Medea is pictured adding ingredients to a chalice. She is wearing a dress with a magic circle motif and bold icons, suggesting her role as a sorceress. In front of her, the potion's ingredients are heated above a flame. Jason appears anxious. He is wearing battle armour and holding a spear, the top of which is not visible as it disappears over the edge of the canvas.ref name = "Masculinities"></ref>
See also List of paintings by John William Waterhouse
References
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