Miravan Breaking Open the Tomb of his Ancestors
Joseph Wright of Derby · 1772
Why it's great
A man breaks into a tomb, with his torch, in search of treasure, but finds an inscription that warns him to leave. Wright of Derby painted dramatic lighting inside a gloomy vault. It's based on a story from a popular book. It's a haunting scene.
Where to see it
📍 Derby Museum and Art GalleryDerby, United Kingdom
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Joseph Wright of Derby was born in Derby, England, and spent nearly his whole life there. He was famous for painting scenes lit by a single candle or lamp, often showing scientific experiments. His friends included inventors and scientists of the Industrial Revolution. He's often called the first painter to capture the spirit of the Age of Science.
