The Death of General Wolfe n.d.

This is Benjamin West's "The Death of General Wolfe," rendered with ink on paper. The dynamism of the drawing comes from West's expressive use of line. The scene is a flurry of frantic activity, yet held together by the artist’s controlled hand. The composition is structured by the convergence of lines towards the central figure. Notice how West uses hatching to create areas of shadow, adding depth and volume to the figures. This use of light and shadow is not merely descriptive; it’s also expressive, conveying the gravity of the moment. The angular lines and sharp contrasts contribute to a sense of urgency and drama, reflecting the historical narrative. The linear structure is not just a means of representation; it is a carrier of meaning, communicating the emotional intensity inherent in the subject matter. This approach destabilizes the conventional representation of historical events.