Who painted Hubert and Arthur (from Shakespeare's 'King John')?

Hubert and Arthur (from Shakespeare's 'King John') was painted by Alexander Runciman.

Where can I see Hubert and Arthur (from Shakespeare's 'King John')?

Hubert and Arthur (from Shakespeare's 'King John') is held by National Galleries Scotland.

What movement is Hubert and Arthur (from Shakespeare's 'King John')?

Hubert and Arthur (from Shakespeare's 'King John') is associated with Neoclassicism.

Artwork

Hubert and Arthur (from Shakespeare's 'King John')

Alexander Runciman

Hubert and Arthur (from Shakespeare's 'King John') is an oil painting by the Neoclassicist artist Alexander Runciman. It is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1790, this oil painting by Alexander Runciman portrays a moment drawn from Shakespeare’s *King John*. Two figures—one youthful, blond, clad in a brown‑white robe, the other older, dark‑haired, in a red garment—reach out and touch hands amid a darkened backdrop that isolates them in dramatic light.

Subject & Meaning

The work captures a tense encounter between the characters Hubert and Arthur, suggesting themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the fragile bonds of kinship that are central to the play’s narrative. The juxtaposition of light and shadow underscores the emotional conflict inherent in the scene.

Technique & Style

Runciman employs a strong chiaroscuro, reminiscent of Rembrandt, to model the figures with depth and volume. The limited palette and focused illumination draw attention to the gestures and expressions, while the dark background heightens the sense of immediacy and drama.

History & Provenance

The painting belongs to the Scottish National Gallery’s collection, reflecting the 18th‑century Scottish tradition of rendering literary and classical subjects. Alexander Runciman, noted for historical and mythological compositions, was the elder brother of fellow painter John Runciman, and this work exemplifies his engagement with narrative art.

Artist & collection

Artist

Alexander Runciman

Alexander Runciman (15 August 1736 – 4 October 1785) was a Scottish painter of historical and mythological subjects. He was the elder brother of John Runciman, also a painter.