Elizabeth Shewell West and Her Son, Raphael
A hand-painted replica of Benjamin West’s masterpiece Elizabeth Shewell West and Her Son, Raphael, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.
"Elizabeth Shewell West and Her Son, Raphael" is a painting by the Anglo-American artist Benjamin West, completed in 1773. The artwork is an oil on canvas and is considered a significant example of West's portraiture, showcasing his ability to combine personal intimacy with the grandeur of 18th-century portrait painting.
The painting depicts Elizabeth Shewell West, the artist's wife, alongside their son, Raphael Lamar West. Elizabeth Shewell was a Philadelphia-born woman who married Benjamin West in 1765. Their marriage was notable for its romantic backstory, as Shewell reportedly eloped to England to marry West against her family's wishes. Raphael Lamar West, their son, later became an artist himself, though he did not achieve the same level of fame as his father.
In this portrait, Elizabeth is seated, holding her young son on her lap. The composition emphasizes the maternal bond between the two figures, with Elizabeth's calm and composed demeanor contrasting with the lively expression of the child. The painting is rendered in a soft, naturalistic style, characteristic of West's work during this period. The use of light and color enhances the warmth and intimacy of the scene, while the detailed rendering of fabrics and textures reflects West's technical skill.
Benjamin West was a prominent figure in the art world of the 18th century, known for his historical paintings and his role as the second president of the Royal Academy in London. Although he is best remembered for his large-scale historical works, his portraits, such as "Elizabeth Shewell West and Her Son, Raphael," demonstrate his versatility and his ability to capture the personal and emotional aspects of his subjects.
The painting is currently housed in the Yale University Art Gallery in New Haven, Connecticut. It remains an important example of West's portraiture and provides insight into his personal life, as well as the artistic conventions of the time.
