Christ showing a little Child as the Emblem of Heaven drawing, 1810
Permanent ID:
12934Call number:
3149Date:
1810Image Description:
This drawing is a pen sketch that depicts Christ as a large figure on the left of the composition and a smaller female figure, both holding up a baby in the center.The grid in pencil over the image indicates that the drawing was a study for a larger painting. West previously painted the subject in 1790 in a different composition.This drawing is one of a small collection of drawings created by American-born artist Benjamin West (1738-1820) during his career in London (circa 1765-circa 1819).
Inscription:
Christ showing a Little Child as the Emblem of Heaven.Design for the Picture which was painted for Hart Davies Esq.
Benjamin West [title, subtitle, and artist's signature in ink] (Verso)
259 Christ showing a Little Child as the Emblem of Heaven:
design for the picture which was painted for Hart Davies Esq., 7 1/2in. by 6 1/4in., pen-and-ink, within border of brown wash and ink, mounted, 30/- s.b. & f., d. 1810
Between the figure of a kneeling woman and Christ seated, stands the child raised upon a bench ; the draping of the principal figure is very fine, and his aspect one of instruction ; the countenance expressive of authority and command.
[printed label] (Verso)
B. West
1810 (Recto lower left)