Description

Description: In this 1786 stipple engraving, the acclaimed British-American painter gazes serenely out at the viewer as he sits at desk, one hand grasping a bible, the other holding a paintbrush. A canvas with West’s unfinished painting, Moses Receiving the Law on Mount Sinai is propped in front of him, showing a bearded and robed Moses rising through the clouds clutching the two stone tablets. The engraving, by Caroline Watson, is after Gilbert Stuart’s portrait of West, though the artist is identified as “Gabriel Stuart”. Stuart’s painting now belongs to the National Portrait Gallery in London. The engraving was published in 1786 by John and Josiah Boydell of Cheapside, London.

Benjamin West (1738-1820) was a prolific American-born British painter of historical (and religious) scenes who so impressed King George III that he was appointed historical painter to the court and Surveyor of the King’s Pictures. He was also integral to the creation of the Royal Academy and served as its second president.

Caroline Watson (1761-1814) was known for her skilled worked in the stipple method, was particularly known for reproductions of miniatures, and was the only woman engraver to serve as an independent engraver in Britain in the 18th century.

Image size 6 1/4″ x 4 7/8″.  Full platemark visible: 8 3/4″ x 6 1/4″. Overall: 9″ x 6 5/8″. Item #PR00539

Condition: Toned along perimeter, a few faint spots, small chips to upper corners from having previously been mounted, otherwise good condition.