Of Fame and Revelations

This article seeks to add to our understanding of one of the principal characters in the life of John Keats. Joseph Severn accompanied Keats to Rome and was at his bedside when the poet died. Research for the essay began with the discovery of a painting in 1993. The Infant of the Apocalypse Caught up to Heaven occupied ten years of Severn's life. Its star-crossed history provides an intriguing narrative, epitomising the irreverence towards Severn's stature as an artist. This altarpiece in the Papal Basilica of St Paul outside the Walls, and many other acclaimed paintings by Severn displayed in galleries worldwide, challenge the received wisdom that Severn's fame resulted entirely from his relationship with Keats. Finding the missing painting in Rome thirty years ago initiated this essay.

Automated summary

This article aims to enhance our knowledge about one of the key individuals in the life of John Keats. Joseph Severn, who accompanied Keats to Rome and was present at his deathbed, is the focal point of this research. The essay began with the discovery of a painting in 1993, titled "The Infant of the Apocalypse Caught up to Heaven," which consumed ten years of Severn's life. This painting's tumultuous history serves as a captivating narrative, challenging the perception that Severn's fame solely resulted from his association with Keats. Locating the missing artwork in Rome three decades ago ignited the genesis of this essay.