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Original artwork: the death of King Philip...



Item # 682814

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August 19, 1675

* Death of Metacomet - Wampanoag people
* re. King Philip's War - First Indian War
* Original, hand drawn artwork - drawing



An original gouache drawing, measuring 6 by 4 1/4 inches, no place, undated. This is a vignette design of "The Death of King Philip", believed to be an unadopted version from Wellstood Imprints.
The fallen King Philip is seen lying on the ground while a Native American observer approaches to fire the fatal shot. Differing from the published version, this image shows a knife in King Philip's hand, pointed downward in a way that might construe death at his own hand or fighting to the end.
The piece is unsigned but still a beautiful piece.
Minor spotting to the artwork, and adhesive residue on verso. Overall very good.

As a bit of background, Metacomet (1638-1676), also known as Pometacom, Metacom, and his adopted English name King Philip, was sachem to the Wampanoag people. Initially, he sought to live in harmony with the colonists and took charge of much of his tribes' trade with the colonies. As the colonies continued to expand, however, the Wampanoag people were being pushed from their lands, and in 1671, the colonial leaders of the Plymouth Colony forced major concessions from Metacomet.
Hostilities broke out in 1675, and Metacomet led those who opposed the English, with the mission of halting further Puritan expansion.

This item comes with a certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

Category: Documents & Broadsides