Allegory of Peace
by RIGAUD, John Francis, Oil on canvas, 55 x 43 cm
In 1797 Rigaud was commissioned to paint four paintings depicting the allegories of Happiness, Innocence, Wisdom and Providence. The paintings were intended to be dedicated to King George III and Queen Charlotte for the celebration of the 40th anniversary of their reign. Rigaud produced the rectangular version of the allegories painted earlier for the angular corners between the arches under the dome of the Common Council Chamber at Guildhall in the City of London. In the rectangular version, the painter turned the Allegory of Happiness into a representation of peace.