John Hilling – Burning of Old South Church, Bath, Maine National Gallery of Art (Washington)

The canvas presents a dramatic scene dominated by a large structure engulfed in flames. The building, clearly intended as a place of worship given its steeple and clock tower, is rendered with considerable detail despite the intensity of the fire consuming it. Flames lick at the facade, casting an orange glow that illuminates the surrounding landscape and sky. Thick plumes of smoke billow upwards, obscuring portions of the structure and contributing to the overall sense of chaos and destruction.
A crowd has gathered in the foreground, their figures rendered as dark silhouettes against the fiery backdrop. They appear to be observing the event with a mixture of awe and distress. A line of armed men stands on the left side of the composition, seemingly maintaining order or perhaps guarding the perimeter. To the right, a group holds what appears to be an American flag, adding another layer of complexity to the narrative. The presence of these figures suggests a public spectacle, possibly even a deliberate act rather than a purely accidental occurrence.
The artist’s use of color is striking. The fiery oranges and reds contrast sharply with the dark blues and grays of the sky, creating a visually arresting composition. The limited palette reinforces the somber mood and emphasizes the destructive power of the fire. A crescent moon hangs in the upper left corner, offering a faint glimmer of hope or perhaps serving as a silent witness to the unfolding tragedy.
Beyond the literal depiction of a building burning, the painting seems to explore themes of loss, community response to disaster, and potentially, political tension. The armed men suggest an element of control or suppression, hinting at underlying social or political unrest that might be connected to the event. The gathering crowd could represent both mourning and a collective effort to understand and respond to this devastating loss. The inclusion of the flag introduces questions about national identity and its relationship to local events. Ultimately, the work invites contemplation on the fragility of institutions and the resilience of communities in the face of adversity.