FUSELI, HENRY (1741-1825)

"Lear & Cordelia" (1784)
original mezzotint by John Raphael Smith (1751-1812)
43 x 55.5cm
signed in plate
*private collection, Sydney
 
Johann Heinrich Fussli was a famous Swiss Painter of the Gothic Revival period. He was known for his dark and grotesque works incorporating mythology, religion and the macarbre. He was educated in Zurich inspired by Michaelangelo and Holbein, but achieved considerable fame in Britain for his unique Modern Gothic paintings. He was most famous for his paintings illustrating the works of William Shakespeare and John Milton, populated by elemental spirits, goblins and other fantastic creatures. He was a Professor of Painting & Keeper of the Royal Academy, and mentor to William Blake. His most recognisable work is "The Nightmare" (1781), housed at the Detroit Institute of Arts, I was lucky enough to see last year; a special moment for me. 
 
This original engraving is represented in several important institutions, including the National Gallery Of Art in Washington