Albert Joseph Moore (1841–1893) was an English painter known for his pictures of classically posed, languid women with harmonies of pattern, color, and tone. In the 1860s, he developed a style that embodied early aestheticism—art intended to be celebrated for its inherent beauty alone. Moore’s pictures were typically composed with one to three female figures with classical proportions, neoclassical drapery, and floral ornamentation. The figures were as rhythmic and reticent as the Japanese prints that he admired.
“Dreamers,” circa 1882, by Albert Joseph Moore. Oil on canvas; 27.5 inches by 47.6 inches. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Birmingham. (Public Domain)
Many Western European artists, Moore included, came into contact with Japanese art and designs when trade with Japan opened up in 1858. Western artists became intrigued by the original use of color and composition in the Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints. As a colorist of great sensitivity, Moore merged the women in his paintings into the decorative pattern of flowers in the background, which was inspired by the designs of ukiyo-e prints….