The Cadence of Autumn by Evelyn De Morgan (Interpretation and Analysis)

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The Cadence of Autumn
Source: The De Morgan Foundation

The artists of the Pre-Raphaelite movement are often known as the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. However, in actuality, female artists and writers were essential to the success of the movement. While many people know about the contributions that female writers such as Christina Rossetti made to the movement, the work of female painters is less well-known, it is equally important.

Evelyn De Morgan was perhaps the most successful and prolific female painter of the Pre-Raphaelite movement. Her work is characterized by an intense and vibrant palette of colors and an interest in spiritual and allegorical themes.

The Cadence of Autumn is a particularly allegorical painting. De Morgan painted it towards the end of her life, in a contemplative and reflective mood. The piece depicts the four seasons of the year as stages of human life. On the left, a young woman in a purple robe carries a basket of fruit, representing the growth and vitality of spring and summer. In the center, two women hold a sack of fruit that symbolizes the abundance of the autumnal harvest. These two women symbolize maturity and adulthood, while two the right two older women symbolize aging and death. They represent the gradual transition between autumn and winter as the year comes to an end.

While it is a beautiful piece of art, The Cadence of Autumn is really about thought and self-reflection. It invites the viewer to consider the cycle of life and the actions that are appropriate to each stage of life. At this time, De Morgan was considering the autumn of her own life and preparing herself for the next step. Even though it’s possible to see this painting in a sad or depressing light, The Cadence of Autumn is the perfect painting to reflect upon as all of us prepare for the colder, shorter days of winter.

Disclaimer: I’m not an art historian or an expert on this topic. The above is my opinion, based on my interpretation of my foreknowledge of art and history. If I’ve done any additional research, I’ll note it above.

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