Artwork

The Death of General Wolfe

The Death of General Wolfe, by Edward Penny, oil, 1763
The Death of General Wolfe, by Edward Penny, oil, 1763

The Death of General Wolfe is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Edward Penny. It dates from 1763 and is held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.

About this work

Overview

The Death of General Wolfe is an oil painting completed in 1763 by Edward Penny, a founding member of the Royal Academy.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the final moments of British General James Wolfe, mortally wounded during the Battle of Quebec in the Seven Years' War, surrounded by distressed onlookers against a turbulent sky.

Technique & Style

Rendered in a realistic style with attention to detail and texture, the work features muted earth tones and dark shadows, creating a somber atmosphere.

History & Provenance

The painting is now held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Edward Penny

Artist

Edward Penny

Edward Penny (1 August 1714 – 16 November 1791) was an English portrait and historical painter, one of the founder members of the Royal Academy.

Ashmolean Museum

Museum

Ashmolean Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Ashmolean Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.