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Vathek

Richard R.A. Westall

1850

watercolor

From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum

Early 19th Century

Dominant colour

Vathek is a 1850 watercolor by Richard R.A. Westall, held at Victoria and Albert Museum.

Who painted this?: Richard R.A. Westall
When & what style?: 1850
Where can I see it?: Victoria and Albert Museum

About this work

This watercolor shows a man in bright red and gold robes standing outdoors with one arm outstretched. Behind him, a woman in white sits on a rock, looking down at a figure lying on the ground. The scene is set in a rocky forest with trees and uneven terrain. The man’s red hat and flowing sleeves stand out against the muted greens and browns of the background. The artist used loose, sketchy brushstrokes to suggest movement and emotion. Check out the Victoria and Albert Museum to see this painting in person.

The story of this work

Overview

The watercolour depicts a scene from William Beckford’s *Vathek*, showing the title character motionless in surprise as he discovers Nouronihar lying trembling and pale on the ground.

Read the full account in the museum source.