About this artwork
Wilkie conveys the powerful emotion generated when a farmer and his large family, unable to pay the rent, are faced with eviction. The subject was topical for many tenant farmers faced financial crisis as rents rose but corn prices fell. The hardworking and despairing farmer's neighbours angrily protest on his behalf as the wealthily dressed, uncaring bailiff orders an inventory of contents and the imminent seizure of goods. Wilkie brilliantly proved here his ability to tackle serious subjects, but the painting had a mixed reception because of its potential political message and its sombre appearance.
Updated before 2020
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artist:Sir David Wilkie (1785 - 1841) Scottish
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title:Distraining for Rent
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date created:1815
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materials:Oil on panel
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measurements:81.30 x 123.00 cm; Framed: 113.70 x 155.20 x 12.70 cm
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object type:
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credit line:Purchased 1975
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accession number:NG 2337
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gallery:
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subject:
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artwork photographed by:Antonia Reeve
Sir David Wilkie
Sir David Wilkie
Wilkie achieved international recognition for his highly original paintings of events and episodes from contemporary life. His skills as a narrator were evident in the facial expressions and poses of his characters, and in the informative detail he included. He was born in Fife, the son of a rural...