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The Royal Academy Prize-painting, Trial Scene in "The Merchant of Venice", by A. B. Donaldson, 1862. Creator: E. Skill. The Royal Academy Prize-painting, Trial Scene in "The Merchant of Venice", by A. B. Donaldson, 1862. Creator: E. Skill
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The Royal Academy Prize-painting, Trial Scene in "The Merchant of Venice", by A. B. Donaldson, 1862. Creator: E. Skill. The Royal Academy Prize-painting, Trial Scene in "The Merchant of Venice", by A. B. Donaldson, 1862. Creator: E. Skill
The Royal Academy Prize-painting, Trial Scene in "The Merchant of Venice", by A. B. Donaldson, 1862. Engraving of a painting. The medal for historical painting has been awarded to Mr. Andrew Brown Donaldson...The exact point which the artist appears to have selected is where Bassanio, having tendered for Antonio "twice the sum", the amount of the bond (this is indicated by the money-bags on the floor), which the Jew inexorably refuses, Portia proceeds to give judgment...The eager, malignant look of Shylock as he grasps the knife and brandishes the scales would show that he is yet in the full tide of exultation at his triumph. The uplifted finger of Portia, however, prepares us for the admonition which is immediately to follow, to his intense mortification, wherein she advises him to have some surgeon by, to "stop his wounds, lest he do bleed to death". The picture indicates the possession of a very satisfactory perception of the nature of the situation, and of the passions moving the various actors. A little more vigour in the attitudes would certainly be desirable; and there is a crowding in the composition which is not an uncommon error in young beginners'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862
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Media ID 35120175
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Anti Jewish Anti Semitic Anti Semitism Antisemitic Antisemitism Character Controversial Controversy Cross Dressing Daughter Disguise Disguised E Skill Father Fatherhood Fictional Character Jewish Judaism Merchant Money Parent Pictures Portia Scales Shakespeare Shakespeare William Shakspeare Shylock Skill Skill E The Merchant Of Venice Trial William Shakespeare Illustrated London News White And Black
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This engraving captures the intensity of Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice" as depicted in the Royal Academy Prize-winning painting by Scottish artist A.B. Donaldson in 1862. The scene portrayed is the pivotal moment of the trial where Shylock, played by the malevolent figure on the left, triumphantly grasps a knife and brandishes a set of scales, believing he has finally won his revenge against Antonio. However, Portia, disguised as a lawyer, intervenes and delivers a powerful rebuke, advising Shylock to seek medical attention for his wounds lest he bleed to death. Donaldson's painting, which earned him the prestigious medal for historical painting from the Royal Academy, masterfully conveys the complex emotions and high stakes of the trial scene. Portia's stern yet compassionate expression and raised finger emphasize her role as a just arbiter, while Shylock's fierce gaze and clenched fists reveal his deep-seated anger and frustration. The money bags on the floor underscore the financial implications of the trial, adding to the dramatic tension. E. Skill's meticulous engraving brings out the intricate details of Donaldson's painting, allowing viewers to appreciate the artist's skillful use of light, color, and composition. The crowded composition, while common among young artists, adds to the sense of urgency and chaos in the scene. Overall, this engraving provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of Shakespearean drama and the artistic mastery of A.B. Donaldson and E. Skill.
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