The artwork titled “Noah and His Ark (after Charles Catton)” was created by Charles Willson Peale in the year 1819. It belongs to the Rococo art movement and is classified as a religious painting.
The artwork vividly portrays the biblical narrative of Noah and his Ark. In this depiction, an elderly man, presumed to be Noah, is seen at the center, draped in flowing robes, his face serene and contemplative. Surrounding him are a diverse array of animals, ranging from majestic elephants and lions to exotic peacocks and tigers, each rendered with meticulous attention to detail. Rays of light illuminate Noah, symbolizing divine favor and guidance. In the background, the ark looms large, constructed of wooden beams, with a group of people in the distance, possibly Noah’s family, working diligently. The scene is set against a lush, verdant landscape with tall trees and a distant view of the sea, suggesting the aftermath of the great flood. The use of light and shadow enhances the dramatic and serene quality of the composition, exemplifying the Rococo style’s emphasis on elegance and grace.
