Artwork

Alexander III of Scotland Rescued from the Fury of a Stag by the Intrepidity of Colin Fitzgerald

Alexander III of Scotland Rescued from the Fury of a Stag by the Intrepidity of Colin Fitzgerald, by Benjamin West, oil, 1794
Alexander III of Scotland Rescued from the Fury of a Stag by the Intrepidity of Colin Fitzgerald, by Benjamin West, oil, 1794

Alexander III of Scotland Rescued from the Fury of a Stag by the Intrepidity of Colin Fitzgerald is an oil painting by the Neoclassicist artist Benjamin West. It dates from 1794 and is held in the collection of the Scottish National Gallery.

About this work

Overview

Alexander III of Scotland Rescued from the Fury of a Stag by the Intrepidity of Colin Fitzgerald is an oil painting created in 1786 by Benjamin West, an artist of American origin who was active in London.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates a legendary episode from Scottish history where Colin Fitzgerald saves King Alexander III from a stag during a hunt, an event tied to the origins of the Highland Clan Mackenzie.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil paint, the work is characteristic of West's style, which was influenced by his training and practice in London. The painting may employ techniques such as glazing to achieve its visual effects.

History & Provenance

Benjamin West, the artist, settled in London in the 1760s and later became the second president of the Royal Academy, indicating his prominence in the British art world of his time.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Benjamin West

Artist

Benjamin West

American, Swarthmore, Pennsylvania 1738–1820 London