The Angel at the Tomb of Christ - Benjamin West

A rare 1801 lithograph by Benjamin West, depicting the angel at the tomb of Christ with expressive, energetic line work.

This print is a significant example of early lithography, appearing in the publication 'Specimens of Polyautography' in 1801. Benjamin West, an American painter who spent much of his career in London, was one of the first artists to experiment with this new medium. The process, then known as polyautography, allowed artists to draw directly onto stone, capturing the spontaneity of their hand without the mediation of an engraver. The composition depicts the angel seated at the entrance of the tomb, a subject drawn from the New Testament account of the Resurrection. West employs a dynamic arrangement, with the figure of the angel positioned centrally, wings unfurled, and one arm raised in a gesture of proclamation. The surrounding environment is rendered with energetic, cross-hatched lines that create a sense of atmospheric tension. The swirling forms behind the figure suggest a supernatural presence, while the rocky ground provides a solid base for the composition. West's approach to the medium reflects his broader interest in historical and religious themes, which defined his tenure as the second President of the Royal Academy. The lines are direct and expressive, showing the artist's comfort with the lithographic crayon. Below the image, the inscription 'He is not here: for he is risen' provides the narrative context for the scene. This work offers a glimpse into the technical infancy of lithography, demonstrating how established painters adapted their draughtsmanship to the requirements of the stone. The print remains a clear record of the intersection between traditional religious iconography and the emerging print technologies of the early nineteenth century.