The Apotheosis of Garrick, RCS, Stratford-upon-Avon, UK
- Constructed: 1738
Oil painting showing famous 18th century actor David Garrick ascending to mount Parnassus upon his death. Currently housed in the Royal Shakespeare Company Scott Bar.
History
Description / Materials
History
The painting belongs to the Royal Shakespeare Company, where it is on display in the Circle Bar, overlooking the river Avon.
‘The Apotheosis of Garrick is an oil painting, also known as The Immortality of Garrick, with Portraits of the Principal Actors, it was painted by English artist George Carter in 1782 and given to the RSC Collection in 1911. The painting was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1784 and again in 1951, and has been loaned out to regional museums.
Carter’s work shows Garrick’s Drury Lane acting company, gathered to witness the lift off of their deceased master on his flight to Parnassus. Some of the most renowned actors of their day are dressed as Shakespearean characters which include Cordelia, Isabella, Beatrice, Desdemona, Hamlet, Iachimo, Touchstone, the Gravedigger, Prospero and Malvolio.’ (From the RSC website)
On plaque under the painting: ‘Can British gratitude delay, To him the glory of this isle. GARRICK. To give the festive day, The song, the statue, the devoted pile! To him, the first of Poets!-best of Men! We ne’er shall look upon his like again! Garrick’s Ode to Shakespeare.’
Read more, and see the full painting, at the RSC website
Description / Materials
Painting
