An infrared camera analysis of Richard Ansdell’s 1861 anti-slavery painting The Hunted Slaves has revealed hidden drawing changes made during its creation, according to National Museums Liverpool. The conservation work is taking place while Liverpool’s International Slavery Museum is closed for a major revamp.
Conservation Discovery on The Hunted Slaves
Conservators cleaning the surface of the massive canvas—which measures more than 10 feet wide and nearly 6.5 feet high—used a digital infrared camera to examine the artwork’s layers. According to lead conservator David Crombie, the examination uncovered several alterations the artist made while painting.
“The large axe held by the male figure originally had a longer handle and a shorter blade,” Crombie stated, noting that the camera also exposed line drawings defining the shapes of the hunting dogs.
Did you know?
Richard Ansdell originally raffled off The Hunted Slaves to raise cash to support unemployed mill workers during the cotton famine caused by the American Civil War. The winner later donated the artwork to Liverpool Town Hall.
Historical Context of the 1861 Artwork
Produced during the American Civil War, the painting depicts a man and woman fighting off a pack of dogs, with broken chains hanging from the man’s wrists to signify an escape from bondage. According to a National Museums Liverpool spokeswoman, the piece was created to express support for the anti-slavery northern United States.
The transatlantic conflict severely impacted Lancashire’s textile industries, which could no longer import cotton due to a naval blockade enforced by the Union against the pro-slavery Confederacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
The painting is part of the collections undergoing conservation work while Liverpool’s International Slavery Museum remains closed for redevelopment.
What techniques did conservators use to find the changes?
According to conservators, a digital infrared camera was used to peer beneath the paint surface, revealing initial sketches of the axe and hunting dogs.
Who painted The Hunted Slaves?
The 1861 artwork was painted by Liverpool artist Richard Ansdell.
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