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NOTE: This exhibit is CLOSED. For reference only.Pirates, Patriots, and Medieval Pageantry:The World of Howard
Pyle
at the Delaware History Museum More than 30 paintings, on loan from the Delaware Art Museum and private collections, present the dramatic, bold lines, brilliant colors and complex characters that typify the work of the “Father of American Illustration.” Pyle (1853-1911) conjured up an image of pirates in ragged clothing, eye-patches, tri-corner-hats, bandanas and earrings that still permeates our understanding of the topic today. Pyle’s 100-year-old paintings of burning galleons or marooned pirates could have been used to costume a current blockbuster movie. Stimulated by the surge in patriotism following the Centennial, many authors began writing down the tales of our colonial past. Pyle not only illustrated many of those stories, but also wrote his own. Great battles, Washington leading his troops, or the death of a war-torn hero, are all familiar scenes in Pyle’s repertoire. Pyle collected the firearms, swords and other accouterments of the period to assure the authenticity of his work. The valor of our American troops is reflected in these images of past heroism Tales with a mediaeval theme had been popular since Sir Walter Scott wrote in the early 1800s. As the publishing business developed color printing, the medieval stories gained lavish pictures. Howard Pyle was one of the most requested artists for tales of knights and ladies fair. Again, Pyle both wrote and illustrated his own tales of olden times. The rich color and vibrant life, which Pyle captured, bring these drawings and paintings to life, as if Sir Lancelot were there in the gallery with the visitor. The exhibition will also acknowledge the writing and illustrating talents of Pyle’s younger sister, Katharine (1863-1938). Though Katharine may not have enjoyed the same success as her very popular brother, it was not for lack of talent. Katharine published her first works as a young teen in 1895, and continued to illustrate or write one or more books annually until 1934. In addition to creating her own words, Katharine collaborated with her brother on various writing and illustration projects. Her greatest success remains one such collaboration in the publication of The Counterpane Fairy in 1898. The Delaware History Museum is located at 504 Market St. in Wilmington, Delaware. Hours are Monday through Friday noon to 4 p.m., and Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. For further information, please call 656-0637. |
