John
Trumbull painted this wonderful work of art in 1821, and it was placed in the
U.S. Capitol Rotunda in 1826.
This
painting is one of four works of art Trumbull has in the Rotunda. He planned this painting as am outdoor scene
to contrast with the Signing of the
Declaration of Independence which hangs next to it. Trumbull is an amazing artist considering a
childhood accident left him blind in one eye.
Trumbull
served in the Patriot army during the American Revolution. While in Boston he was able to make sketches
that proved to be useful to the Patriots of the British works. He was also a personal aide to Washington and
General Gates.
The
painting is a portrayal of the British surrender following the Battle of
Saratoga on October 17, 1777.
From
left to right we see American Captain Seymour of Connecticut, American Colonel Scammel
of New Hampshire (in blue), British Major General William Phillips (in red),
British Lieutenant General John Burgoyne (in red), American Major General
Horatio Gates (in blue), American Colonel Daniel Morgan (in white).
The
Battle of Saratoga was a major turning point during the American
Revolution. England was unable to
achieve its goal of dividing New England from the rest of the colonies and
France was finally persuaded to help the Patriots.
Take
a close look at the painting. General
Burgoyne is ready to hand his sword over to General Gates – and act of submission. Gates, in an effort to show Burgoyne
respect refuses to take the sword and offers him refreshment in his tent.
The
painting is one that shows peace rather than hostility.
A
smaller version of this painting hangs in the collection at the Yale University
Art Gallery.
