The lyrics tell the story of a man whose wife becomes infatuated with a painter who convinces her to pose for a portrait. The man becomes increasingly jealous and eventually gets rid of his wife in a fit of rage, blaming the painter for her demise.

Meaning of "The Painter" by Chris De Burgh

"The Painter" delves into the themes of jealousy, possessiveness, and ultimately, the destructive nature of obsession. The narrator's fixation on his wife's relationship with the painter leads to a tragic end, showcasing the lengths to which jealousy can drive a person. The lyrics also touch upon themes of manipulation and control, as the painter subtly maneuvers his way into the wife's life, causing turmoil in the marriage. The song serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of succumbing to possessiveness and the destructive consequences it can have on relationships.