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The Airpump by Joseph Wright

The Airpump by Joseph Wright


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The Airpump by Joseph Wright

The Air Pump by Joseph Wright (1734-1797). This artwork was painted in 1768. Its full title is An Experiment on a Bird in the Air Pump and is the second of the series of candlelight compositions that established Wrights name. It depicts a public demonstration of the effects of a vacuum created by an air pump using a live bird (top centre). The vacuum suffocates the bird and leads to a painful death, and a distressed female spectator can be seen (right). The Air Pump was influenced by meetings between Wright and his friends, when they demonstrated experiments and discussed the latest scientific developments

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6413789

© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

1700s 18th Century Alive Astronomer Bird Child Death Demonstration Distressed Experiment Girl Live Mortality Painting Philosophy Physiological Physiology Public Science Education Scientist Spectator Spectators Vacuum Distressing Joseph Wright Physical


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The Air Pump by Joseph Wright - A Haunting Depiction of Scientific Curiosity and Human Mortality

EDITORS COMMENTS
. This print showcases Joseph Wright's renowned artwork, "The Air Pump" painted in 1768. Titled "An Experiment on a Bird in the Air Pump" this masterpiece is part of a series that solidified Wright's reputation as an exceptional artist. The painting vividly portrays a public demonstration illustrating the consequences of creating a vacuum using an air pump. At the center of the composition, we witness a live bird trapped within the suffocating grip of the vacuum. Its painful demise serves as a poignant reminder of mortality and evokes distress among both spectators and viewers alike. To the right, one can observe a visibly distraught female spectator, her emotions mirroring our own unease at witnessing such suffering. Wright drew inspiration for "The Air Pump" from his gatherings with friends, where they engaged in experiments and lively discussions about scientific advancements during their time. This painting encapsulates not only physical science but also philosophical inquiries into human existence. As we gaze upon this thought-provoking piece, it becomes evident that Wright masterfully intertwines art and science to convey profound messages about life's fragility. Through his skillful brushstrokes, he invites us to reflect on our place within nature's intricate tapestry while contemplating ethical considerations surrounding scientific exploration. This powerful image captures both historical significance and timeless themes—reminding us that even centuries later, art continues to ignite curiosity about our world and provoke contemplation on humanity's relationship with knowledge and its consequences.

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