Artwork

The Obelisk under the Liberty Tree, Boston

The Obelisk under the Liberty Tree, Boston, by Paul Revere, ink, 1766
The Obelisk under the Liberty Tree, Boston, by Paul Revere, ink, 1766

The Obelisk under the Liberty Tree, Boston is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Paul Revere. It dates from 1766 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Obelisk under the Liberty Tree, Boston is an engraving created by Paul Revere in 1766, with a later print made in 1973 by Ed. O'Brien.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts an obelisk, known as the Liberty Tree, a real gathering spot in Boston for protests against British taxation. Four portraits at its top may represent notable colonists, accompanied by scenes and poems celebrating freedom.

Technique & Style

The engraving features intricate lines and old-fashioned handwriting, characteristic of Revere's work. The image includes detailed scenes and portraits, demonstrating the artist's skill in carving fine lines into metal to produce prints.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paul Revere

Artist

Paul Revere

Paul Revere (1770–1770) was an artist.

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