Who painted The Transfiguration?

The Transfiguration was painted by W. Walton in 1829.

Where can I see The Transfiguration?

The Transfiguration is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Transfiguration?

The Transfiguration is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

The Transfiguration

W. Walton , 1829

The Transfiguration is an ink print by the Romanticist artist W. Walton. It dates from 1829 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This 1829 lithograph by W.

About this work

Overview

This 1829 lithograph by W. Walton depicts a biblical transfiguration scene. Executed in gray tones, the print presents six figures arranged in a vertical composition. A central robed figure stands elevated on rocky terrain, flanked by two standing men, while three others kneel or sit below. The work predates the addition of lettering, preserving its original graphic clarity.

Subject & Meaning

The scene portrays Christ’s transfiguration, a moment of divine revelation recounted in Christian scripture. The central figure, illuminated against a lighter backdrop, embodies spiritual transformation, while the surrounding figures—likely apostles—react with reverence. Their downward gazes and bowed postures suggest awe, reinforcing the sacred narrative’s emotional weight.

Technique & Style

Walton employs lithographic techniques to achieve tonal variation and textural detail, particularly in the rocky terrain and drapery. The composition’s verticality and dramatic contrasts reflect Romanticism’s emphasis on emotion and transcendence. Subtle gradations of gray enhance depth, while the absence of lettering focuses attention on the image’s symbolic core.

History & Provenance

Created in 1829, this proof state of *The Transfiguration* precedes the final printed edition. Lithography, then a relatively new medium, allowed Walton to explore tonal effects and intricate line work. The print’s early production phase suggests it may have been intended for religious or instructional use, though its exact circulation remains undocumented.

Context

The work emerges from early 19th-century Romanticism, a movement that prioritized individual spirituality and sublime experience. Lithography’s rise during this period enabled artists to disseminate religious imagery with greater accessibility. Walton’s interpretation aligns with contemporary interest in dramatic biblical episodes, blending devotion with artistic innovation.