"King Lear," Act I, Scene I

Edwin Austin Abbey

Created:
Movement:
1898
Realism
key Notes:
Dramatic Composition, Elizabethan Costume
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Dimensions:
54 1/4 x 127 1/4 in. (137.8 x 323.2 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"King Lear," Act I, Scene I is a painting by Edwin Austin Abbey, created in 1898. The work depicts a pivotal moment from William Shakespeare's tragedy "King Lear," specifically the scene where Lear divides his kingdom among his daughters. Abbey was known for his illustrations and paintings that often drew inspiration from literature, particularly Shakespeare. The painting showcases Abbey's skill in capturing dramatic emotion and intricate detail, reflecting the themes of power and familial conflict present in the play. Abbey's interpretation emphasizes the tension between Lear and his daughters, particularly Goneril and Regan. The artwork is characterized by its rich color palette and dynamic composition, typical of Abbey's style. It is part of a series of works that Abbey created based on Shakespearean themes. The painting is currently housed in a private collection or museum, though specific details about its location may vary. Further information about the painting's exhibition history or provenance is not widely documented.

Description of the work:

"King Lear," Act I, Scene I by Edwin Austin Abbey is an oil on canvas painting created in 1898. The composition captures a pivotal moment from Shakespeare's play, depicting King Lear surrounded by his daughters, Goneril and Regan, as well as the Fool. The figures are rendered with a strong emphasis on their emotional expressions and gestures, conveying the tension of the scene. Abbey employs a rich color palette dominated by deep reds and golds, enhancing the dramatic atmosphere. The use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and highlights the characters' faces, drawing the viewer's attention to their interactions. The background features a stylized architectural setting, suggesting a regal environment that complements the narrative. The overall arrangement of the figures and the dynamic poses contribute to the sense of impending conflict inherent in the story.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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"King Lear," Act I, Scene I