Lecture Notes: John Singleton Copley's "Watson and the Shark"

Introduction

• Location: National Gallery of Art, Washington DC
• Painting discussed: "Watson and the Shark" by John Singleton Copley

Context of the Painting

• Shift from portraiture to history painting in early American art
• Portraiture was the primary market in the American colonies
• Copley’s aspiration to create grand history compositions, popular in 18th-century art

Characteristics of History Painting

• Not based on real-time observations but from imagination
• Usually inspired by classical historical events, providing moral and instructive lessons
• Examples include heroic deaths, virtues

Unique Aspects of "Watson and the Shark"

• Contemporary Event Depiction: Unlike traditional history paintings, Copley depicts a contemporary event (1749)
• Combines Genres: Mix of history and portraiture
• Moral Lessons: Though not classical, it offers a moral story similar to history paintings

Description of the Painting

• Features a shark attacking a young sailor, inspired by patron Brooke Watson’s real-life event
• Shark depicted with an enormous size, symbolizing danger
• Composition shows a sense of hopelessness for the young man

Art Historical References

• Visual references to Raphael’s works (e.g., "The Miraculous Draft of Fishes")
• Standing figure inspired by St. George killing the dragon
• Utilizes Renaissance compositional techniques

The Patron: Brooke Watson

• Commissioned the painting based on a tragic life event
• Used it to symbolize overcoming adversity
• Donated the painting to an orphanage as an inspirational tool

Interpretation and Themes

• Inspiration and Achievement: Watson’s story is about overcoming hardships despite losing a foot
• Moral and Social Commentary: Reflects on themes of salvation, personal resilience
• Political Implications: Watson’s political background (Tory Member of Parliament) adds a layer of complexity
• Christian Symbolism: References to salvation, possibly social or personal, using Christian art motifs

Conclusion

• "Watson and the Shark" remains a composite of historical art influences and Copley’s innovative approach
• A painting not only visually striking but rich in narrative and moral complexity.