Artwork
Granville Sharp the Abolitionist Rescuing a Slave from the Hands of His Master

Granville Sharp the Abolitionist Rescuing a Slave from the Hands of His Master is an oil painting by James Hayllar. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Granville Sharp the Abolitionist Rescuing a Slave from the Hands of His Master is an 1864 oil painting by English artist James Hayllar, held in the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a dramatic scene of Granville Sharp intervening to free an enslaved person, reflecting the abolitionist efforts of the time. Three central figures are shown, with Sharp likely represented by the man in the dark coat, confronting the slave's master.
Technique & Style
The work showcases Hayllar's skill in genre painting, with a tense atmosphere and detailed depiction of clothing and setting. The use of oil paint allows for rich colors, evident in the figures' attire, such as the blue coat with gold trim and the pink coat.
History & Provenance
Created in 1864 by James Hayllar, an English painter with a diverse career, the painting is now part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection. Hayllar came from a family of artists, with his four daughters also becoming notable painters.
Artist & collection
Artist
James Hayllar (1829–1920) was an English genre, portrait and landscape painter. Four of his daughters Edith Hayllar, Jessica Hayllar, Mary Hayllar and Kate Hayllar were also notable painters.










