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Apothecary in Romeo and Juliet, 1805
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Apothecary in Romeo and Juliet, 1805
Apothecary in Romeo and Juliet. 19th-century artwork depicting the apothecary scene (Act 5, Scene 1) from Shakespeares play Romeo and Juliet. Titled Enter Apothecary, it shows Romeo (right), believing Juliet is dead, visiting an alchemist to buy poison to kill himself. Romeos words are: Come hither Man; I see, that thou art poor; Hold, theres forty ducats. At top, hanging from the ceiling, is a stuffed crocodile, a common alchemical symbol. This engraving is by English painter and poet William Blake (1757-1827) for an edition of Shakespeares works illustrated by British painter Henry Fuseli (1741-1825)
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This print captures a pivotal moment in Shakespeare's timeless tragedy, Romeo and Juliet. Created in 1805 by renowned English painter and poet William Blake, this enchanting artwork depicts the poignant scene from Act 5, Scene 1 known as "Enter Apothecary". The image showcases Romeo, consumed by grief and believing his beloved Juliet to be dead, seeking solace in the dimly lit workshop of an apothecary. In this evocative illustration, we witness Romeo's desperation as he approaches the impoverished apothecary with forty ducats in hand. Symbolism abounds within the composition; hanging ominously from the ceiling is a stuffed crocodile - a common alchemical emblem representing transformation and rebirth. This subtle nod to alchemy adds depth to the narrative unfolding before our eyes. The monochrome engraving exudes an air of melancholy that perfectly encapsulates the tragic essence of Shakespearean drama. It transports us back to a time when love was both beautiful and fatalistic. As we gaze upon this historical masterpiece, we are reminded of the power of art to immortalize human emotions and experiences across centuries. This remarkable piece is part of an edition illustrated by British painter Henry Fuseli for Boydell Shakespeare Gallery. Its intricate details invite us into a world where passion collides with tragedy, leaving an indelible mark on our collective consciousness.
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