The Free Kirk 1849
Oil on canvas | 91.4 x 71.7 cm (support, canvas/panel/stretcher external) | RCIN 404797
Sir Edwin Landseer (1802-73)
The Free Kirk 1849
Royal Collection Trust/© His Majesty King Charles III 2022. Photographer:Mike Davidson
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The Free Church of Scotland was formed in 1843 when 450 ministers broke away from the established Church of Scotland in protest over the right of a wealthy patron to install a minister of his or her choice in a parish. This was seen as an infringement of the spiritual independence of the church. They then had to run a national church from scratch, without buildings or finance. The scene depicted in the painting illustrates the simple, often outdoor, worship that was typical of the Free Church. An old couple are shown with their three dogs, one of whom is said to be the artist's dog, Lassie. A plaid, bonnet and bible are in the foreground. At the back of the painting is a younger couple with a child. Queen Victoria had admired the painting when she saw it in Landseer's house in April 1849.
The painting was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1849.
Inscribed on the back with the name of the artist and the title.Provenance
Given to Prince Albert by Queen Victoria, 24th December 1849
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Medium and techniques
Oil on canvas
Measurements
91.4 x 71.7 cm (support, canvas/panel/stretcher external)
118.1 x 103.2 x 9.0 cm (frame, external)
Category
Object type(s)