Benjamin West | Bible.Gallery

Benjamin West PRA (October 10, 1738 – March 11, 1820) was an American-born artist, who painted famous historical scenes such as The Death of Nelson, The Death of General Wolfe, and Benjamin Franklin Drawing Electricity from the Sky.

Entirely self-taught, West soon gained valuable patronage, and he toured Europe, eventually settling in London. He impressed George III and was largely responsible for the launch of the Royal Academy, of which he became the second president (after Sir Joshua Reynolds). He was appointed historical painter to the court and Surveyor of the King's Pictures.

West also painted religious subjects, as in his huge work The Preservation of St Paul after a Shipwreck at Malta, at the Chapel of St Peter and St Paul in Greenwich, and Christ Healing the Sick, presented to the National Gallery.

Artworks from Benjamin West

Isaac's servant tying the bracelet on Rebecca's arm

Isaac's servant tying the bracelet on Rebecca's arm by Benjamin West Genesis 24:15-50

The birth of Esau and Jacob

The birth of Esau and Jacob by Benjamin West Genesis 25:19-26

The Women at the Sepulchre (The Angel at the Tomb of Christ)

The Women at the Sepulchre (The Angel at the Tomb of Christ) by Benjamin West Matthew 28:1-10