Artwork

This is my Beloved Son

This is my Beloved Son, by Benjamin West, ink, 1802
This is my Beloved Son, by Benjamin West, ink, 1802

This is my Beloved Son is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Benjamin West. It dates from 1802 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This is my Beloved Son is a lithograph created by Benjamin West in 1802.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a sorrowful figure in a long, wind-blown robe standing on a rocky shoreline, with a bird flying overhead. The figure's emotional state is conveyed through its downcast gaze and disheveled hair.

Technique & Style

The work exemplifies Romanticism, a style characterized by its emphasis on evoking emotion and drama. The use of a turbulent sky and choppy water adds to the overall sense of turmoil.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Benjamin West

Artist

Benjamin West

American, Swarthmore, Pennsylvania 1738–1820 London

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