The Death of General Mercer at Princeton, January 3, 1777

Artist John Trumbull's painting was completed over many years between 1787 and 1831.

According to Wikipedia: The composition depicts several events of the American Revolutionary War battle as if they occurred simultaneously, and is Trumbull's first painting of an American victory.

At the center of the painting, American General Hugh Mercer, with his dead horse beneath him, is shown mortally wounded. Mercer was commanding the leading division of the Continental Army when attacked by British Colonel Charles Mawhood near Princeton, New Jersey. 

At the left, American Daniel Neil is shown bayoneted against his cannon. Captain Neil died on the battlefield from saber wounds. At the right, British Captain William Leslie is shown mortally wounded.

In the background, General George Washington and Dr. Benjamin Rush enter the scene. After Mercer was wounded, Washington lead the charge to overtake Mawhood's troops and win the battle. On the far left, American General Thomas Mifflin is shown leading a cavalry charge. American Colonel John Cadwalader and British Colonel Edmund Eyre are also depicted.

Download the Keys to John Trumbull's American Revolution Paintings (to view the name and location of each person depicted in the composition).

Artist: John Trumbull
Date: 1787-1831
Location: Princeton, New Jersey
Original medium: Oil on canvas
Orientation: Horizontal/Landscape
Image restored & enhanced by Rebel Seed Studio