‘Jane Morris in traditional Icelandic costume’ by Dante Gabriel Rossetti - 1873

This painting represents Jane Morris reclining in traditional Icelandic garments brought back to her by her husband William Morris after a trip to the Nordic country. The model preferred the comfortable, more flowing lines of the blouse compared to the fussy style of Victorian fashion.

The PRB were known for challenging contemporary femininity. In this portrait we see Jane Morris staring directly at the artist, with nothing demure or downward-looking in her stance or facial expression. The challenging nature of this portrait is further fuelled by the fact that Morris had a turbulent and intense relationship with Rossetti whilst still married, a fact her husband seemingly accepted.