Welcome to the very first post in my new series: Art Witch – A Year of Enchanted Paintings. Each month I’ll be exploring an artwork that feels especially magical, mysterious, or just plain otherworldly, and this month we’re stepping straight into an enchanted forest with The Beguiling of Merlin by Edward Burne-Jones (1874).
This enchanted painting shows the famous Arthurian sorceress Morgana (sometimes called Nimue or Vivien) weaving her spell over Merlin. He’s utterly entranced, powerless as she traps him in a hawthorn bush using her magic. It’s both beautiful and unsettling – which is exactly why I love it.
The Story Behind It
In Arthurian legend, Merlin is the great wizard who guides King Arthur, but he falls deeply in love with Morgana (or Nimue, depending on the version). She pretends to return his affection, but really she wants his magical knowledge. Once she has it, she uses it against him – seducing him, then binding him forever.
Burne-Jones captures the moment perfectly: Merlin’s expression is weary, almost resigned, while Morgana looks utterly in control. Her long dark gown, the winding hawthorn branches, and that book of spells in her hand all make this painting feel drenched in mystery.
I’ve always adored the story of the Arthurian legends. When I was younger, I devoured countless novels set in that world – one of my absolute favourites being The Mists of Avalon (I really must get a copy and read it again, because I adored it). I also love TV shows like Merlin and films that bring the legends to life. The magic, mystery, and timeless beauty of these tales is just… well, beguiling – and I think that’s exactly what drew me to this enchanted painting.
Why It’s So Enchanting
This is one of those enchanted paintings that pulls you in the longer you look at it. Everything is symbolic:
- The hawthorn tree – traditionally protective, but also a place where fairies were thought to dwell.
- Morgana’s dark gown – power, mystery, shadow energy.
- The spellbook – knowledge as both a gift and a trap.
- Merlin’s face – is he in love, or already aware that his doom is sealed?
What makes it so fascinating is that Burne-Jones doesn’t show Morgana as evil. She’s powerful, yes, but also calm, almost serene. It asks the question: is she a villain, or is she simply claiming her own power in a world dominated by men?
Style Inspiration
Fashion-wise, this painting is autumn in a nutshell. Think:
- Deep forest colours – emerald green, midnight blue, and inky black.
- Long flowing fabrics – dresses, skirts, or even long coats that move with you.
- Layered textures – lace, velvet, wool, and a touch of leather.
- Statement jewellery – something with a hint of the mystical: a chunky crystal pendant, a silver cuff, or anything with Celtic knotwork.
If you’re more subtle, you could just take the palette – those dark, earthy greens and blacks – and add a touch of drama with accessories. It’s less about dressing like Morgana herself and more about capturing that enchanted painting energy in your own way. I decided to have a go myself and thought this navy blue dress was quite fitting, as it has long sleeves and a delicate lace neckline. I threw on my newest gorgeous, black lace kimono and then edited myself into the image lol!
Final Thoughts
The Beguiling of Merlin is one of those enchanted paintings that’s impossible to forget. It’s romantic, eerie, and full of power – a reminder that women’s magic has always fascinated, frightened, and inspired in equal measure.
For me, it’s the perfect artwork to begin this series, especially as the seasons shift and autumn finally creeps in. There’s something about Morgana in her shadowy gown that feels right for September – standing tall, stepping into power, and weaving a little enchantment of her own.
Next month, we’ll dive into something equally magical but with a different energy altogether – but for now, I’d love to know: Do you find The Beguiling of Merlin enchanting, or unsettling? Or maybe both? And how would you style a look based on this enchanted painting?
