Study for a Part of the Large Picture of the Shipwreck of St. Paul drawing, circa 1765-1819
Permanent ID:
4975Date:
1765 – 1819Image Description:
West executed this study in preparation for painting the altarpiece of the Chapel of the Greenwich Hospital in London. The drawing centers around St. Paul, standing elevated on the upper right side of the composition, while crowds shrink away from him. West created the alterpiece for the chapel when it underwent construction after a major fire in 1779. The drawing is not dated but it was likely excecuted after James Stuart was appointed to lead the rennovations in 1781. The chapel re-opened in 1798. The hospital is now Old Royal Navy College. The completed alterpiece remains in the chapel today.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 1765-1819).
Inscription:
Study for a part of the large Picture of the Shipwreck of St. Paul, painted for the Chapel in the Hospital at GreenwichBenjamin West [title, subtitle, and artist's signature] (Verso)
305 Study for a part of the large Picture of the SHIPWRECK OF ST. PAUL, painted for the Chapel in the Greenwhich Hospital, oblong, 7 1/4 in. by 9 5/8 in. wash outlined in pen-and-ink, mounted, 2 guineas s.b. & f.
The attention of the terrified crew is centered upon the Apostle ; just landed upon the island he authoritatively commands their movements and they hasten to obey in awe, remembering the terrible effects of their last refusal to accept his words as truth.
[Printed label] (Verso)
BW. (Recto lower left)
Format:
Pen works; WashDimensions:
Width: 25 cm, Height: 19.5 cm (image)Width: 35 cm, Height: 29.5 cm (frame)