Evolution is an allegorical (symbolist) subject featuring the motif of a mother, shown as a seated female nude, surrounded by children. It was possibly intended as a study for the never realised 'House of Life'. This was a scheme of public frescoes, showing the creation of the world and the evolution of mankind, mainly through Old Testament stories and symbolist subjects.

The impact of science upon faith was a major issue in the nineteenth century. Evolution, through Darwin’s Origin of Species (1859), seemed to replace a divine creation with a materialistic explanation of the world. Traditionally, a woman cradling many children represents Charity. Human love becomes a metaphor for Divine providence.

George Frederic Watts reinterprets the image for the uncertainties of the modern age. In Evolution, an anxious mother searches the horizon over a hoard of infants. George's art uses a traditional style but engages with modern ideas. His religious art also avoids traditional formulae but expresses a personal spiritual engagement.

Evolution can be seen in the G F Watts Studio at Limnerslease, where Mary and George Watts lived and worked.

Evolution is available to adopt

Each adoption membership lasts for five years.

Price: £1,500
Annual payment: £300
Monthly payment: £25

Contact the team

Email: rachael.gurney-o'neill@wattsgallery.org.uk
Phone: 01483 901809