Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library

The Death of General Montgomery
1798
John Trumbull, painter (1756-1843); Johan Frederik Clemens, engraver (1749-1831); A. C. de Poggi, publisher
England: London
Engraving on paper
overall: 27-1/4"h x 34-3/4"w
Special Acquisitions Fund
84.56.3

From the painting by John Trumbull; scene shows General Montgomery, dying, in battle, surrounded by soldiers, horses, cannon; reads on bottom "The Death of General Montgomery In the attack of Quebec Dec 1775/ Painted by John Trumbull, Esqr/ London, Published March 1798 by A C de Poggi No. 91 New Bond Street/ Engraved by J. T. Clemens."

American painter John Trumbull depicted the death of General Richard Montgomery while he was studying painting with London-based American artist Benjamin West. Trumbull had been a soldier in the early years of the American Revolution. He painted several scenes of Revolutionary War battles and formative events in the history of the United States; several were published as prints. This one portrays the American defeat at Quebec, but celebrates the sacrifice of British-born General Montgomery, who fought on the colonists’ side and died during the battle.