Tragic romance hidden in a 19th century painting

Burton used gouache to create this piece, a type of water-soluble paint that gives the painting the vivid colors it is known for. Gouache is also light sensitive and prone to fading over time if exposed to direct sunlight or high UV rays. Given the sensitivity of the painting, the curators take several precautions to maintain the quality of the work. Initially, the gallery allowed viewers to see the painting for only two hours a week. Secondly, the light level on watercolor is subdued so that the work is not overexposed. Finally, a staff member returns the painting to a specially designed cabinet once the viewing hours are over in a meticulous and reverent ritual.

In both form and substance, “The Meeting on the Tower Stairs” embodies the power of love. George Eliot was particularly impressed by Hildebrand’s expression in the painting, describing the prince as “a man to whom a kiss is a secret.”

Despite how vulnerable the painting’s materials have always been, the colors remain as bold as the couple’s love for each other, even 162 years later. Burton included what appear to be crushed white petals near Hillel’s left foot. Dr. Caroline Campbell, director of the National Museum of Ireland, told the BBC that white roses symbolize purity and loyalty.

Dr. Campbell personally appreciates the painting: “When I first saw it, I was struck by the dazzling blue of Hillelel’s dress, the vivid colors, and the intensity of the moment depicted, even though Hildebrand and Hillelel are not looking at each other.” “Hildebrand seems to kiss Hillelel’s arm, but turns away from him because she cannot control the strong emotions she feels. I also loved the play of waiting for the closet to open, and the ‘big reveal,’ when I saw the real watercolor for the first time.”