Home > Arts > Artists > G > William Greatbach
Reading the Will, c1820. Creator: William Greatbach
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Reading the Will, c1820. Creator: William Greatbach
Reading the Will, c1820. The numerous heirs gather round the lawyer seated at the table, on which are coins, bottles and glasses. One stands close with an ear trumpet. The belongings of the recently deceased spill out of a trunk in the foreground. The work is said to have been inspired by the novel " Guy Mannering" by Sir Walter Scott. Engraving after the painting in the Neue Pinakothek Munich, Germany
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 18384518
© The Print Collector/Heritage Images
Belongings David David Wilkie Ear Trumpet Greatbach Hearing Hearing Aid Heir Inheritance Listening Relative Relatives Scott Sir David Sir David Wilkie Sir Walter Sir Walter Scott Treasure Treasure Chest Trunk Waiting Walter Walter Scott Wilkie William Greatbach Guy Mannering Lawyer
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Fishes
> T
> Trumpeter
> Arts
> Artists
> G
> William Greatbach
> Arts
> Artists
> S
> William Scott
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> David Wilkie
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> William White
> Arts
> Literature
> Europe
> Germany
> Munich (Munchen)
> Europe
> Germany
> Paintings
Reading the Will, c1820
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating print that captures a scene of anticipation and intrigue. Created by William Greatbach, this engraving depicts numerous heirs gathered around a lawyer seated at a table adorned with coins, bottles, and glasses. One individual stands close by, clutching an ear trumpet to catch every word spoken. In the foreground, the belongings of the recently deceased spill out of a trunk, symbolizing the wealth and inheritance at stake. Inspired by Sir Walter Scott's novel "Guy Mannering" this artwork beautifully portrays the tension surrounding matters of law and family fortune in 19th century Britain. The monochrome composition adds depth to the image while emphasizing its historical context. The diverse cast of characters includes men, women, and even children eagerly awaiting their fate as relatives listen intently for any mention of their name. The artist skillfully conveys their expressions ranging from hope to anxiety as they hang on every word uttered by the lawyer. Through this print, Greatbach invites viewers into a world where inheritance plays a significant role in shaping lives. It serves as both an intriguing glimpse into past societal dynamics and an homage to Sir David Wilkie's original painting housed in Munich's Neue Pinakothek. This artwork reminds us that even centuries ago, human emotions tied to wealth distribution were universal - making it timeless despite being captured within its specific historical context.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
