Volunteer stewards and De Morgan guides Nadine Kirby and Jane Mercer introduce their favourite De Morgan works.

Evelyn de Morgan was ahead of her time. An exceptionally gifted artist and early feminist, she depicted female figures from classical mythology but more unusually, foregrounded them as agents in their own story.

One of my favourite paintings is Cadmus and Harmonia (1877). Cadmus, founder and ruler of the ancient kingdom of Thebes, infuriates the Gods and unable to endure their punishments, begs to be turned into a snake. An old woman in the original tale, Harmonia is reimagined in this sumptuous painting as a young beauty, towering majestically over the landscape and choosing to join her husband in his fate.

No wonder George Watts said of Evelyn: “I look upon her as the first woman artist of the day – if not of all time.”

Nadine Kirby

I jumped at the opportunity to give Tuesday Talks in the De Morgan Gallery because I find the De Morgans endlessly fascinating. In particular, I love William’s sense of fun which comes out in his beautiful quirky tiles and ceramics. The inventive way he created the designs using bold natural shapes is always instantly recognisable.

If I had to choose a favourite (which is difficult) it would be the Ruby Lustre Grotesque Creature Dish with its dragon/bird-like central figure made from floral and leaf shapes. I can imagine the twinkle in William’s eye when it emerged from the kiln in one piece. I love the way the centre of the plate is covered with winding leafy stems while the decorative border interweaves floral motifs and what look like seed heads around the edge. The whole surface is full of pattern and the lustre surface would have looked amazing in the gas lamp light.

Jane Mercer

Tours of the De Morgan Gallery happen every Tuesday and Saturday from 12 - 12.30pm. Free with admission.