Agrippina and her Children weeping over the Ashes of Germanicus


Permanent ID:
12974
Date:
1771
Image Description:
This charcoal sketch depicts Agrippina, the wife of Germanicus resting upon the ashes of her assassinated husband. Her two children, Caligula and Agrippina the Younger look towards each other on the left side of the composition. West depicted multiple versions of Agrippina throughout his career.

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:
Agrippina and her Children
Benjamin West [title and artist's signature]
(Verso)

250 Agrippina and her Children, 12 1/4 in. by 9 5/8 in., study in charcoal, mounted 15/-
s. b. & f., d. 1771
Agrippina's right arm partly encircles the infant boy reclining on her lap in a state of rebellion ; the mother appears troubled by fears of the future ; near her is another older boy pulling roughly at his hair.
[printed label]
(Verso)

B. West 1771 (Recto lower left)
Format:
Charcoal
Dimensions:
Width: 25 cm, Height: 43.5 cm (image)
Width: 36 cm, Height: 43.5 cm (frame)
Collection:
Benjamin West Drawings
Related Person or Organization:
Benjamin West, 1730-1813 (artist)