John Singleton Copley's "Watson and the Shark" (ASL)

John Singleton Copley's Watson and the Shark depicts the true story of the orphaned Brooks Watson, who, at fourteen years old, was attacked by a shark while swimming in Havana Harbor, Cuba. Watson was saved, but not before losing his right foot. He went on to enjoy a successful career as a merchant and politician, and proudly recounted his ordeal. Watson commissioned Copley to paint the work for a London orphanage, where it was intended to represent strength in the face of adversity for an audience who could identify with Watson’s background.
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