The White Owl (1856)
by William James Webbe (English, 1830–1904)
The White Owl is a captivating piece that exemplifies the artist’s meticulous attention to detail and his importance within the Pre-Raphaelite movement. Painted in 1856, the artwork features a solitary white owl resting on its perch within a belfry, a setting that evokes a sense of solitude and contemplation. The owl’s feathers are rendered with exquisite detail, showcasing Webbe’s skill in capturing the texture and softness characteristic of an owl’s plumage.
The painting’s title is accompanied by the quote “alone and warming his five wits, the white owl in his belfry sits” — further emphasizing the owl’s isolation and introspective mood. The artwork stands out not only for its technical prowess but also for its ability to convey a deeper narrative through the simple yet profound subject of a white owl in quietude.
Matte Poster
- Printed with dye/pigment reactive inks on archival-quality matte paper
- Heavyweight 210 gsm paper with a thick, durable base
- Instant-dry coating helps resist fingerprints and smudges
- Carefully packaged and shipped in a heavy-duty protective poster tube