John William Waterhouse born Rome 1849 died London 1917
He was an important Pre-Raphaellite painter.
You will need to investigate Pre-Raphaelite painters, this group of artists were a victorian phenomena that where interested in the revival of medieval artistic subjects. including mythology.. The Victorians had an obsession with sex, death and temptation so this fitted in well.. Since this is probably a subject for homework and College research, I do not intend to answer all your questions. But give you a guide:
1. Find out about the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood
2. Find where J W Waterhouse fits in
3 Find out about their philosophy
4. From this you will be able to draw your own conclusions and answer your questions
