St. John ink drawing, circa 1765-1819


Permanent ID:
4986
Image Description:
Labeled St. John, the title that Benjamin West gave this drawing on the back side was likely confused with another evangelist drawing, that of St. Matthew. This drawing depicts St. Matthew as a robed figure seated on clouds in the cetner of the composition. St. Matthew is writing on a tablet while looking up at a winged man on the upper left of the compostion. The winged man is the traditional figure depicted with Matthew in Christian iconography. This drawing is undated, but it is similar in form to the works "St. Luke" and "St. Matthew" (a depiction of St. John because of the title switch) which both are dated 1785, and is likely from the same time.

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:
St. John
Benjamin West [title and artist's signature]
(Verso)

297A St. John: a Study, 6 3/4 in. by 8 1,4 in., light brown and blue wash, outlined with pen-and-ink, mounted, 21/-   s. b.
The cloud-borne figure, aided by an angel floating a little to hs right, appears to be wholly filled with a burning desire to chronicle faithfully upon the tablet held by his left hand, the events his memory recalls.
(Verso)
Format:
Pen works; Wash
Dimensions:
Width: 21 cm, Height: 21 cm (image)
Width: 30 cm, Height: 31 cm (frame)
Collection:
Benjamin West Drawings
Related Person or Organization:
Benjamin West, 1730-1813 (artist)