The Meeting of Lear and Cordelia (1784) by Benjamin West

The Meeting of Lear and Cordelia - Benjamin West - 1784

Artwork Information

TitleThe Meeting of Lear and Cordelia
ArtistBenjamin West
Date1784
Mediumoil,canvas
Dimensions110.5 x 148 cm
Art MovementNeoclassicism

About The Meeting of Lear and Cordelia

The artwork titled “The Meeting of Lear and Cordelia” by Benjamin West, created in 1784, employs oil on canvas as its medium. Representing the Neoclassicism art movement, this literary painting measures 110.5 x 148 cm.

This painting poignantly captures a scene from William Shakespeare’s tragedy “King Lear,” where the aged, distressed King Lear is reunited with his daughter, Cordelia. The composition focuses on an emotionally charged moment: Lear, seated and appearing frail, is assuaged by the tender approach of Cordelia, who kneels beside him and extends a comforting hand. The light illumination emphasizes the central characters, casting deep shadows that heighten the dramatic tension. The somber tones and attentive detail in the figures’ expressions and gestures evoke the pathos and complexity of their reunion. Surrounding attendees observe with quiet reverence, contributing to the painting’s solemn yet intimate atmosphere. The drapery and the background create a harmonious setting that underscores the neoclassical style through balanced composition and restrained color palette.

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