Death of Wat Tyler ink drawing, circa 1765-1819
Death of Wat Tyler ink drawing, circa 1765-1819

Death of Wat Tyler ink drawing, circa 1765-1819


Permanent ID:
4983
Call number:
3149
Date:
1765 – 1819
Image Description:
This is a drawing in ink and sepia wash depicting a close up variation of another "Death of Wat Tyler" scene that West drew. Wat Tyler, the leader of the 1381 Peasant's Revolt in England, is centered in the compostition and looks up at his assailents as he falls from his horse. The assailents are coming at Tyler from the left with their weapons raised while a horse runs away on the right, giving the composition a sense of movement from left to right. 
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:
The Death of Wat Tyler
Benjamin West [title and artist's signature]
(Verso)

272 Death of Wat Tyler : another representation of the same, oblong, 9 1/2 in. by 14 1/4 in., study in light brown wash, outlined with pen-and-ink, within border of wash and lines, on grey mount, 3 guineas   s.b.
Only the victim and three foes are present here ; clinging round his horses neck with one arm, he strives to defend himself against the overwhelming onslaught of his two assailants with the other, but there is no doubt left as to the result of the combat ; the vigor if action is marvellously depicted ; and the supreme agony of fear on Tyler's face produced by but a few strokes, betrays the hand of the master.
[Printed label]
(Verso)
Format:
Drawings
Dimensions:
Width: 47.6 cm, Height: 35.8 cm
Collection:
Benjamin West Drawings
Related Person or Organization:
Benjamin West, 1730-1813 (artist)