The artwork entitled “Know Thy Self” by Benjamin West, created circa 1768, is a notable example of Neoclassical allegorical painting. Rendered in ink on paper, the piece measures 47.6 by 64.8 centimeters and currently resides in the Brooklyn Museum in New York City. This work exemplifies the ideals of Neoclassicism through its composition and subject matter.
The painting depicts a gathering of Classical figures engaged in a scene of philosophical importance. Central to the composition, various individuals are shown in contemplative poses, perhaps engaged in dialogue or instruction, reflecting the Neoclassical emphasis on rationality and moral virtue. The architectural elements, such as the imposing columns and sculptural busts, reinforce the grandeur and solemnity of the scene. The intricacies of draped clothing and attentive postures among the characters further emphasize the intellectual nature of the assembly. The overall tonality of the artwork, achieved through the careful application of ink, underscores its historical and allegorical context.
