About The Burghers of Calais
The Burghers of Calais is an oil on canvas history painting by the Anglo-American artist Benjamin West, from 1789. It depicts a scene from the Siege of Calais in 1347, part of the Hundred Years War. After his victory at the Battle of Crécy the army of Edward III of England advanced on the port of Calais. After a lengthy siege, he offered terms that if six of the leading citizens would surrender to him and be executed, he would spare the other inhabitants. However, his wife, Philippa of Hainault made a plea for mercy on their behalf and they were also spared. The composition emphasises the dignity of the six burghers and the restrained, eloquent appeal for compassion by Phillipa.
- Inception
- 1789
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