John Ruskin, known for his prudish disposition, maintained his conservative views throughout his life. Following the death of the renowned artist J. M. W. Turner in 1851, Ruskin was tasked with examining the posthumous collection left to the public. Among these were several watercolors of a distinctly erotic nature, which deeply unsettled Ruskin.

Overcome by horror at the content, he attributed the works to a state of "insanity" and made the controversial decision to destroy nearly all of them. This act not only reflected his personal values but also deprived future generations of appreciating Turner's artistic legacy.