Artwork
Vathek
Vathek is a watercolor work on paper by Richard R.A. Westall. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This watercolour illustrates a pivotal moment from William Beckford’s novel *Vathek*, capturing a dramatic scene of discovery and distress.
Subject & Meaning
The scene depicts Vathek, dressed in vibrant red and gold robes, frozen in surprise with an outstretched arm. Before him, Nouronihar sits on a rock, her attention focused downward on a figure lying on the ground, conveying a sense of alarm and concern.
Technique & Style
The artist employed loose, expressive brushstrokes to evoke a sense of movement and emotional intensity, contrasting the muted, earthy tones of the rocky forest backdrop with the vibrant, attention-grabbing attire of Vathek.
History & Provenance
Currently housed at the Victoria and Albert Museum, the watercolour’s creation date and artist are not specified in the provided information.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
English artist Richard Westall made prints and watercolours in the late 1700s and early 1800s, often drawing subjects from literature and mythology.
Selim discovered with Zuleika by Giaffir and his men
Interior of a Harem
Two Turks, with a Servant, smoking on a Terrace overlooking a Lake or Sea in Turkey or Greece
Isaac and Rebekah
Feramorz relating he story of the Peri
Du bist schläfrig (Thou art inclined to sleep)
The Beautiful Stranger poisond by her Sister
Albanians, and Greek woman of Smyrna
The Young Robber
La fiancee du roi de Garbe: La chevalier
An Oriental Woman kneeling to plead with a Man who stands at a window
The Sleeper awakened