Romeo and Juliet: the Tomb Scene
Joseph Wright of Derby · 1790
Why it's great
Romeo has taken poison, and Juliet is waking up in the crypt, with a lamp casting a dramatic glow. Wright of Derby painted several scenes from Shakespeare's plays. His use of dark and light heightens the tragedy. It's a moving take on one of the greatest love stories.
Where to see it
📍 Derby Museum and Art GalleryDerby, United Kingdom
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Three places to look for a print of this painting, from budget to museum-grade:
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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.
