The Attempted Suicide of La Belle Isoude – A Pre-Raphaelite Meditation on Loss and Redemption

Edward Coley Burne-Jones’s “The Attempted Suicide of La Belle Isoude” stands as a haunting testament to the Victorian preoccupation with psychological torment and spiritual yearning. Painted in 1862, this masterpiece exemplifies the core tenets of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood—a movement dedicated to reviving artistic ideals rooted in medieval art and rejecting the academic conventions prevalent at the time—resulting in an unforgettable visual experience. The painting depicts a dramatic scene: La Belle Isoude, a figure from Dante Gabriel Rossetti’s poem “The Lady Magdalene,” stands poised on the edge of despair, attempting to extinguish her own life amidst a tableau of sorrowful beauty.

• Subject Matter & Narrative: Inspired by Rossetti's poetic vision, Burne-Jones portrays a poignant narrative exploring themes of vulnerability, grief, and the struggle for inner peace. The scene captures a moment of profound crisis—a woman grappling with suicidal thoughts—but simultaneously imbued with an aura of ethereal grace.
• Style & Technique: Burne-Jones’s distinctive style is characterized by meticulous detail and luminous color palettes typical of Pre-Raphaelite painting. He employs tempera on canvas, a technique known for its vibrancy and ability to capture subtle tonal variations—essential for conveying the emotional intensity of the subject matter.
• Symbolism: The composition overflows with symbolic elements reflecting medieval Christian iconography. Notably, the sword held by Sir Tristan symbolizes masculine protection and divine intervention, representing hope amidst despair. The birds circling overhead symbolize resurrection and spiritual ascension, offering a visual counterpoint to Isoude’s predicament.
• Historical Context: Created during the Victorian era—a period marked by anxieties surrounding morality, faith, and societal upheaval—the painting reflects the broader intellectual currents of its time. Burne-Jones sought to elevate art beyond mere decorative function, aiming instead for a profound engagement with psychological complexity and spiritual contemplation.
• Emotional Impact: “The Attempted Suicide of La Belle Isoude” evokes a powerful emotional response in viewers—a blend of sorrowful empathy and serene beauty. Burne-Jones’s masterful rendering captures the fragility of human existence while simultaneously suggesting the possibility of redemption through faith and artistic contemplation.

The Tristram and Isolde Legend – A Medieval Echo

Burne-Jones's depiction draws heavily from Dante Gabriel Rossetti’s poem “The Lady Magdalene,” which recounts the tragic tale of Tristan and Isolde—a medieval romance steeped in symbolism and exploring themes of forbidden love, betrayal, and ultimate sacrifice. The Pre-Raphaelites deliberately rejected academic conventions favoring idealized beauty, opting instead for a return to the expressive power of medieval art, mirroring the spiritual fervor of the era. This artistic choice underscores Burne-Jones’s commitment to conveying profound psychological truths alongside aesthetic splendor.

Color Palette & Composition – Achieving Atmospheric Depth

The painting's rich color palette—dominated by deep ruby reds and olive greens—contributes significantly to its emotive impact. Burne-Jones skillfully employs chiaroscuro, manipulating light and shadow to heighten dramatic tension and create a sense of ethereal atmosphere. The careful arrangement of figures and objects reinforces the narrative’s emotional core, guiding the viewer's gaze toward Isoude’s vulnerable posture and Tristan’s protective stance—a visual embodiment of hope amidst despair.

A Legacy of Artistic Vision

“The Attempted Suicide of La Belle Isoude” solidified Burne-Jones’s reputation as one of Britain’s foremost artists, influencing subsequent generations of painters and designers. His unwavering dedication to craftsmanship and his profound engagement with psychological themes continue to resonate today—a testament to the enduring power of Pre-Raphaelite art to provoke contemplation and inspire aesthetic appreciation. Reproductions of this iconic artwork offer a captivating glimpse into Victorian artistic sensibilities and a timeless exploration of human emotion.