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1778

John Hamilton Mortimer

Associated Names
John Hamilton Mortimer

Artist, British, 1740 - 1779

The artwork shows two figures in a dynamic and intertwined position, depicting their full bodies. One figure appears muscular, kneeling with their left arm raised and covered by an animal's pelt, while the other stands close beside them. The kneeling figure has rugged facial features and is partially draped in fabric with foliage-like decorations. The standing figure has more delicate features, flowing hair, and a cloth draped over their shoulder and torso, leaving one leg mostly unclothed. The standing figure is slightly bent towards the other, with one arm raised above the head, and the other around the neck of the kneeling individual. A serpent wraps around the legs of both figures, extending its body across the ground. The background features lush foliage and reeds, with sketchy clouds, creating a mythological or pastoral setting. On the ground near the figures are small broken objects that appear to be a mask and a shield.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching

  • Credit Line

    Andrew W. Mellon Fund

  • Dimensions

    plate: 30 x 20.2 cm (11 13/16 x 7 15/16 in.)
    sheet: 41 x 29.2 cm (16 1/8 x 11 1/2 in.)
    overall (mat size): 40.6 x 55.9 cm (16 x 22 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1978.51.4

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Sunderland 1986, no. 140.12


Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

2006

  • The Artist's Vision: Romantic Traditions in Great Britain, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C., 2006 - 2007

Bibliography

1986

  • Sunderland, John. "John Hamilton Mortimer: His Life and Works," Walpole Society 52 (1986): no. 140.12

Wikidata ID

Q65572688

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