The Favourites of the Emperor Honorius
John William Waterhouse · 1883
Why it's great
A Roman emperor feeds his pet chickens, which he called by the names of cities, while an official brings news. In the legend, he cared more for his hens than for the news that Rome was falling. Waterhouse painted a rich scene of the late Roman Empire. It's a funny and surprising story.
Where to see it
📍 Art Gallery of South AustraliaAdelaide, Australia
Open in Maps ↗ About this museum →Hang it on your wall
Three places to look for a print of this painting, from budget to museum-grade:
These links open search results on each shop's own website; we don't sell anything or earn a commission, and print quality varies by seller. Ask a grown-up before you buy anything.
John William Waterhouse was born in Rome to English parents and later lived in London. He painted women from myths and legends — such as the Lady of Shalott and sirens — in lush, colorful detail. He admired the Pre-Raphaelites, who came before him. He died in London in 1917.
