The Death of General Wolfe at Quebec

Date1786

After work by Edward Penny

Printed for Robert Sayer (1725-1794)

OriginEngland, London

MediumMezzotint and line engraving on laid paper with hand color

DimensionsOverall: 18 1/2 × 14 1/2in. (47 × 36.8cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number2021-216

DescriptionLower margin reads: "The DEATH of GENERAL WOLFE at QUEBEC./ LONDON Printed for R. SAYER Map & Printseller, N.o 53 Fleet Street as the Act directs 10.th October 1786./ 125"
Label TextThis print after Edward Penny's painting depicts General James Wolfe’s death at the Plains of Abraham in 1759. He died moments after hearing that his attack had been successful. This campaign led to the capture of Quebec and the capture of Montreal, ending French control of the colony in Canada. Scenes of the young Major-General's death contributed to iconic status as a hero and martyr for England. Penny's rendition is thought to be more accurate than Benjamin West's monumental history painting because it shows only a few witnesses at the scene of his death. This print by Robert Sayer (prints from this maker were imported and sold in Williamsburg) was initially published at the height of the American Revolution in 1779 and then again in 1786 (this copy) coinciding with English interests in North America and aggression towards the French.