Charity

Benjamin West

Associated Names
Benjamin West

Artist, American, 1738 - 1820

The sketch shows multiple figures' upper bodies, centered around a standing person and two cherubic children. The central figure is an adult standing and presented in profile, gazing downward, with a serene expression. This figure has curly hair falling to the shoulders, classical features, a prominent nose, and a gentle smile. The clothing suggests classical drapery covering the torso loosely. Next to the central figure are two cherubic figures, mostly nude, with playful, rounded features and small wings. One cherub leans against the standing figure, while another lies across the lap of a seated figure. The background consists of simple, curved lines creating an arched frame, matching the page's shape, with no distinct setting depicted.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    pen and brown ink with brown wash on gray paper mounted to brown laid paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Robert S. Pirie

  • Dimensions

    overall (lunette): 24.5 × 11.2 cm (9 5/8 × 4 7/16 in.)
    mount: 34.61 × 19.37 cm (13 5/8 × 7 5/8 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1981.77.4


Artwork history & notes

Inscriptions

lower right in graphite: B. West; lower center on mount in graphite: Charity

Wikidata ID

Q64537240

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