If you lived in Britain in the 1700s, you would have spent your evenings in candlelight. Joseph Wright of Derby painted this shadowy world like no other.
Drawing inspiration from artists like Caravaggio, he used a technique called tenebrism to bring drama and tension to his paintings. In his work, Wright explored themes of science, philosophy and death in clever ways, throwing light and shadow across the awe-struck faces of his sitters.
Join Christine Riding, Director of Collections and Research, as she takes a closer look at two of Wright’s greatest paintings. In these large-scale works, learn how Wright painted hidden meaning into every small detail.
?️ Find out more about Joseph Wright of Derby: https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/artists/joseph-wright-of-derby
? Visit the National Gallery’s very first exhibition on this leading British artist in ‘Wright of Derby: From the Shadows’.
Book your tickets, Members go free: https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk/exhibitions/wright-of-derby-from-the-shadows
Until 10 May 2026
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The National Gallery houses the national collection of paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to the 19th centuries. The museum is free of charge and open 361 days per year, daily between 10am - 6pm and on Fridays between 10am - 9pm.
Trafalgar Square, London, WC2N 5DN
https://www.nationalgallery.org.uk