Title devised by cataloger
Artist: Item is attributed to Wright by the bookseller and may be his work though it is dissimilar to other works by Wright in the FSL collection. Wright, however, was a copiest of other artist's styles and conceptions and this picture is derivative of a book illustration by Edward Francis Burney
History: The depiction of Hubert is similar to Burney's illustration of the same scene for Bell's edition of Shakespeare. Burney, however, places Arthur behind Hubert, leaning over his shoulder, reading the letter (see ART File S528k5 no.36 printed for Bell, 1786)
Item is glued solidly to a backing. On verso of backing in pencil are the following numbers '16 x 13 x' and '14 3/4 x 12 x' Backing is attached to a window mat which is labeled in pencil with artist and subject. Edges of the picture are cut unevenly and are abraided as is some of the paint surface. Backing prevents determination of paper type. Unsigned
Provenance: Purchased as part of a collection of Shakespearean illustrations, mostly attributed to Wright with a few by other artists. The Folgers bought the collection from Maggs Bros. in Dec. of 1922. Formerly ART Inventory 286 no.26 (microfilmed with Art Inventory # on reel 2 of FILM Fo 2659)
Subject: Hubert is pictured seated center, to left, his legs crossed, his sword at his side, his left hand holding a letter. Arthur stands in front of him, to right, his arms raised around Hubert's neck. Hubert looks down at Arthur. The penciled label reads 'King John Act IV Scene I Hubert. Read here young Arthur (showing a paper)'
This record contains unverified data from old cards and may contain incorrect or incomplete text. Please consult Curator for assistance
Also available as a digital reproduction
Also known as
Extended title: [Arthur pleading with Hubert for his life - King John, act IV, sc. 1] [John Wright]
attributed artist: Wright, John Massey, 1777-1866
depiction: Shakespeare, William, 1564-1616
depiction: Burgh, Hubert de, -1243
depiction: Arthur I, Duke of Brittany, 1187-1203
possible artist: Burney, Edward Francis, 1760-1848
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