Penelope and the Suitors, John William Waterhouse, 1912. The painting shows Penelope working at her weaving during the day, with suitors looking on, offering her gifts and playing music.

Penelope and the suitors by John William Waterhouse

Audio described in-house.

For blind or visually-impaired vistors, or for anyone who would like to take a ‘closer look’, find out more about this visitor favourite, painted by John William Waterhouse in 1912, through detailed description and historical insights.

Penelope’s legendary marital fidelity was recorded in Homer’s epic poem, ‘The Odyssey’. For many years, her husband Odysseus had been absent at the siege of Troy. Pressed to make a second marriage, she stalls for time, telling the crowds of suitors that they must wait until she has finished weaving a shroud for her father-in-law.  Still convinced that Odysseus will return, at night she undoes all her day’s work.

Event image: Penelope and the Suitors, John William Waterhouse, 1912. The painting shows Penelope working at her weaving during the day, with suitors looking on, offering her gifts and playing music.

Please note that the audio description for this performance is not delivered by VocalEyes. Every effort has been made to ensure that these details are correct; however, please do double-check with the venue for the availability of introductory notes and touch tours when booking.

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Venue

Aberdeen Art Gallery

SchoolhillAberdeenAB10 1FQ
03000 200 293 Visit venue website