Cymon and Iphigenia drawing, 1788
Permanent ID:
12975Call number:
3149Date:
1788Image Description:
This pen drawing illustrates a story originally published in Boccaccio's Decameron, and later made into a poem by John Dryden. The scene depicts Iphigenia reclined and clad in a blanket in the center of the composition, looking up towards Cymon. As the story goes, Cymon, falling in love with Iphigenia become motivated to advance himself, where before he was considered stupid and sent to work in the fields. The resting figures around Iphigenia are her slaves. Cupids surround the lovers and add movement to the 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:
Cymon and IphigeniaBenjamin Wst [title and artist's signature in ink] (Verso)
268 Cymon and Iphigenia, oblong, 12 1/2 in. by 18 3/8 in., pen-and-ink, border of vari-coloured wash, mounted £2 10s s. b. & f., d. 1788
A similar interpretation but on a larger scale ; and in this a myriad of playful cupids greatly enhances the effect.
[printed label] (Verso)
B. West 1788 (Recto lower left on drawing)