About this artwork
This study was for the painting 'The Battle of Drumclog', which Harvey exhibited at the Royal Scottish Academy in 1836. It shows the battle that took place in 1676 between the Covenanters and the Royalist army led by John Graham of Claverhouse (who eventually became Viscount Claverhouse of Dundee). The battle of Drumclog was the only occasion on which the Covenanters defeated the Royalist forces. Harvey had a genuine sympathy for the Covenanters. Unfortunately his composition is not wholly successful, as the numerous intertwined figures become confusing, making it difficult for the viewer to understand the action.
Updated before 2020
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artist:Sir George Harvey (1806 - 1876) Scottish
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title:Study for the Painting 'The Battle of Drumclog'
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date created:About 1836
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materials:Pen and wash over pencil heightened with white on paper
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measurements:15.90 x 21.60 cm
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object type:
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credit line:William Finlay Watson Bequest 1881
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accession number:D 3477
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gallery:
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subject:
Sir George Harvey
Sir George Harvey
Harvey is best known for his Scottish history painting and contemporary narrative scenes. Many of his subjects, designed to invite an emotional response, appear rather sentimental to modern viewers but were extremely popular when first exhibited. Harvey was a student of Sir William Allan's at the...