About this artwork
This is a finished study for a larger picture of the same title. The subject is based on a scene from Sir Walter Scott's historical novel ‘The Pirate’. It shows the heroine Minna Troil passing proudly below an arch of blades during a sword dance, while the other girls shy away. Orchardson was one of Robert Scott Lauder's pupils who moved to London. During the first part of his career he painted rural subjects and a number of illustrations to Scott. Later in life he turned to Regency scenes and episodes from modern life. This painting is the last of his subjects from Scott. Clear outlines and draughtsmanship are always distinguishing features of Orchardson's style.
Updated before 2020
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artist:Sir William Quiller Orchardson (1832 - 1910) Scottish
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title:The Queen of the Swords
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date created:About 1877
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materials:Oil on canvas
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measurements:48.80 x 81.90 cm; Framed: 83.50 x 116.80 x 10.70 cm / 20.00 kg
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object type:
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credit line:Purchased 1910
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accession number:NG 1018
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gallery:
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subject:
Sir William Quiller Orchardson
Sir William Quiller Orchardson
Orchardson was an outstanding narrative painter, who deftly used body language and expression, as well as descriptive detail, to communicate feelings and mood. He was also a gifted portraitist. As a mature student of the Trustees' Academy in Edinburgh, he joined other talented students of Robert...