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The Bard, c. 1817 (oil on canvas)
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The Bard, c. 1817 (oil on canvas)
XYC136233 The Bard, c.1817 (oil on canvas) by Martin, John (1789-1854); 127x101.5 cm; Yale Center for British Art, Paul Mellon Collection, USA; (add.info.: illustration for Thomas Gray poem " The Bard" of 1755; Edward I, after conquest of Wales ordered all bards to be slaughtered to curb Welsh culture and nationalism; ); Paul Mellon Collection; English, out of copyright
Media ID 12695277
© www.bridgemanart.com
Cliff Harp Lyre Wales River Conway
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The Bard, c. 1817
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating oil on canvas masterpiece by John Martin that measures 127x101.5 cm and can be found at the Yale Center for British Art in the Paul Mellon Collection, USA. This extraordinary painting serves as an illustration for Thomas Gray's renowned poem "The Bard" from 1755. Depicting a poignant moment in history, Martin portrays the Celtic minstrel standing proudly amidst a breathtaking landscape of cliffs and rivers. The bard holds his lyre or harp, symbolizing his poetic prowess and cultural significance to Wales. In the background, an army marches with their flag unfurled while a castle looms ominously overhead. This scene alludes to Edward I's brutal conquest of Wales when he ordered the slaughter of all bards in an attempt to suppress Welsh culture and nationalism. The lone figure represents the sole surviving bard who defiantly continues to celebrate Welsh heritage through his artistry. The river Conway flows peacefully nearby, contrasting with the turmoil depicted in this powerful artwork. Through intricate brushwork and vivid colors, Martin skillfully captures both beauty and tragedy within this composition. "The Bard, c. 1817" is not just a visual feast but also serves as a reminder of the resilience of artistic expression even under oppressive circumstances. It stands as an important testament to Welsh history and culture that should be cherished for generations to come.
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