Landing of Columbus

Landing of Columbus

John Vanderlyn's painting, Landing of Columbus, commissioned in 1836/1837, depicts Christopher Columbus' landing in the West Indies in 1492. Columbus holds the royal banner of Spain, laying claim to the land. He holds a sword in his right hand and his hat lies at his feet. Behind him are the other men who traveled on the voyage, including the captains of the Niña and the Pinta, who carry the banner of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella. Some of the men kneel on the ground, apparently looking for gold. Ships are visible in the water in the background. To the right, natives of the island — which they called Guanahani and Columbus named San Salvador — look on from the woods.

Public Domain