Study for "The Death of the Earl of Chatham"

1779

John Singleton Copley

Associated Names
John Singleton Copley

Artist, American, 1738 - 1815

This drawing shows a group of robed figures gathered under a canopy, participating in a formal event. The central figure is seated and the others seem to be focusing on them. The lines are detailed yet faint, creating a sense of solemnity. The figures are positioned to emphasize the importance of the central figure. The drawing conveys an ambiance of historical formality through the elaborate garments and postures of the figures.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Sir Robert Witt [1872-1952], London, 1941 (Lugt Supp.2228b); JJohn Davis Hatch [1907-1996], by 1976; acquired 1980 by the National Gallery of Art

Associated Names

Bibliography

1966

  • Prown, Jules David. John Singleton Copley, vol. 2. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1966, no. 399.

1976

  • Hatch, John Davis. 100 American Drawings: Loan Exhibition from the Collection of John Davis Hatch. London: Heim Gallery, 1976, no. 2.

Markings

lower right verso stamped in black ink: RMW (2228b)

Wikidata ID

Q64584136

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