The enigmatic paintings of Joseph Wright of Derby, a contemporary of the Lunar Society of Birmingham, offer a captivating glimpse into the intersection of science, art, and the human condition. In his work, Wright masterfully navigates the realms of darkness and illumination, crafting scenes that are both haunting and mesmerizing. One such masterpiece, titled 'An Earthstopper on the Banks of the Derwent,' presents a man using a shovel under the moonlit sky, seemingly blocking a fox den. This act, while seemingly mundane, takes on a sinister air, especially when viewed through the lens of Wright's compassion for animals. The painting's hypnotic beauty lies in the interplay of light sources, creating a vivid atmosphere that almost feels alive. Wright's ability to bring landscapes to life at night is a testament to his skill, as he captures the rustling leaves, rushing water, and the clunk of the spade with remarkable detail.
Wright's exploration of darkness and illumination extends beyond mere aesthetics. He is often regarded as the first gothic artist, with his paintings delving into the horrors of the night, not through supernatural elements but through scientific inquiry. In 'A Philosopher by Lamplight,' Wright portrays an old man playing with a skeleton, attempting to understand the mysteries of death. This scene reflects the rise of science as a rational approach to understanding nature, a shift that challenged religious beliefs. Wright's friend, Erasmus Darwin, a radical thinker, embodied this scientific spirit, and his influence on Wright is evident in the artist's exploration of the human condition through scientific experimentation.
'The Blacksmith's Shop' showcases Wright's fascination with the interplay of light and shadow. The blacksmith's workshop, set within a classical temple, symbolizes the death of paganism and the birth of Christianity. This painting serves as a metaphor for the modern material world emerging from the ruins of religious traditions. Wright's 'A Philosopher Giving That Lecture on the Orrery' further emphasizes the artist's connection between science and the universe. The Orrery, a mechanical model of the solar system, is depicted at various scales, inviting viewers to consider the vastness of the cosmos and the role of science in understanding it.
However, Wright's exploration of science and its impact on society reaches its climax in 'An Experiment on a Bird in the Air Pump.' This painting, painted two years after the Orrery, shifts the focus from wonder to dread. The lecturer's intention to create a vacuum and kill a white cockatoo within a glass chamber evokes a sense of horror. Wright's use of light and shadow here is particularly striking, as the candlelight illuminates a human skull, transforming a rational scientific experiment into a nightmarish spectacle. The painting's audience, including members of the local gentry, highlights the power dynamics at play, with the scientist holding the power to life and death.
In summary, Joseph Wright of Derby's paintings offer a profound exploration of science, art, and the human experience. His works challenge viewers to consider the impact of scientific progress on society, the natural world, and the mysteries of existence. Wright's unique ability to capture the beauty and horror of the night, coupled with his scientific curiosity, makes him a pivotal figure in the history of art and science.
