Admiral Lord Nelson died in similar circumstances to General Wolfe – leading his force to victory, although here at sea in the Battle of Trafalgar. Cue for a ‘modern history painting’.
history
West turns to a series of more classical mythological stories for his paintings between 1792 and 1802. These include Shakespeare, the Bible, and the first novel.
Far from continuing to paint ‘modern history’, he embarked on major projects for religious paintings, some of which are superb.
In the 8 years after painting the Death of Wolfe, he attempted a few more ‘modern history’ paintings, with varying success.
The painting by which West is best known, it was claimed to have started a revolution in art, and to be the first modern history painting. Is there any truth?
From very humble beginnings in the British colonies in America, he rose to become a leading history painter, friend and painter to the King, and President of the Royal Academy. How?
Did Moreau succeed in changing history painting, or should his works remain obscure, a minor cul-de-sac in art history?
His last masterpiece has some of the richest symbols, icons, and decoration of all his works. A detailed look at his finale.
Far from being a recluse, the last years saw him teaching avidly, painting major works, and transforming his house into a museum.
Three major paintings: a complex triptych, Saint George and the Dragon, and an extraordinary Indian fantasy cityscape.
The Eclectic Light Company 