A drawing for a series of four paintings based on an episode from William Morris' cycle of epic poems, 'The Earthly Paradise'. The first series is currently in the collection of Lord Lloyd-Webber, the second is in Birmingham's collection. This design differs from the final version, where instead of standing framed in the archway after stepping down from her niche, Galatea is here depicted standing half-draped in the bed alcove. Pygmalion's arm is extended behind him, whereas in the final version it is in front. Bequeathed by James Richardson Holliday, 1927.
Three frames of eleven pencil designs for wood blocks, on tracing paper. Drawn for an illustrated edition of “The Earthly Paradise”, never carried out. “A man of Cyprus, named Pygmalion, made an image of a woman fairer than any that had yet been seen, and in the end came to love his own handiwork as though it had been alive; wherefore, praying to Venus for help, he obtained his end, for she made the image alive indeed, and a Woman, and Pygmalion wedded her.” – The Earthly Paradise.