John Singleton Copley, Watson and the Shark

John Singleton Copley, Watson and the Shark, 1778, oil on canvas, 182.1 x 229.7 cm (National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.). A conversation between Dr. Bryan Zygmont and Dr. Beth Harris.

[@martinchamberlin3359]

Ive lived in DC for a decade...visited this artwork dozens of times....and this video enlightened me more than all of my visits combined

[@barrymoore4470]

I've been aware of this painting for years, but had never before noticed the detail of the hapless victim's missing leg.

[@carlberg7503]

Another brilliant analysis that skillfully combines history, art history, and aesthetic theory. I found fascinating your examination of the paintings's composition and your exploration of genres and their significance. In addition, your investigation of the various meanings of the word "salvation" was illuminating. If you had more time, it would have been interesting to compare the National Gallery's version with the painting in the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. Many similarities but also significant differences. By the way, the word "Bible" is capitalized in English.

[@peterverdon645]

I’ve known of this painting since I was a child. I’m now 50-something and stood before it today for the first time today at the national gallery. I’ve had the good fortune to subscribe to your channel and watched this video yesterday. Thank you so much for enriching my experience

[@juanpdp11]

Great content as usual, the conversation feels lively! Thank you.

[@OldManse09]

Wonderful lesson! Thank you.

[@0x_hackerfren]

Another banger.

[@marcoafraone]

I did not realize there were multiple versions of this painting-one close to home for me at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.

[@user-xv9jc7vu4l]

This has been my favorite painting for many years; I can't believe I never noticed the missing leg! I actually gasped when you guys pointed it out 😂

[@onejonfromearth]

thank you

[@SmittenKitten.]

My children are learning about Renaissance art and the period, and this shows how the present shines a light on the past while chaining it indelibly to the future. Really fascinating.

[@botanicallly]

My professor just used this as a compare and contrast with Gericault’s Raft of the Medusa!

[@Sasha0927]

Caught this one early!

[@Nolanthegardener]

Such a dramatic painting. I didn't know it was inspired by a real event.

[@mooingAlong]

Loved this video though I miss your analysis of European art. Hope you get back to Europe and show art that we never knew existed.

[@paillette2010]

I’ve got to say, you’ve added to a painting I’ve always detested as too derivative and too “Protestant salvation” by Copley’s prosperous career.