g biblical and classical subjects like “The Judgment of Solomon” (1814), “Christ’s Entry into Jerusalem” (1820), and “The Raising of Lazarus” (1823). Though Haydon’s intentions were noble, many critics concurred that Haydon’s true artistic ability as demonstrated in these works fell far short of his ambitions. His large, somewhat dull canvases were viewed by many critics as multi-figure compositions that were little more than melodrama.
Though Haydon’s prevailing interest focused on serious historical subjects, he also produced humorous paintings on occasion. These works included: “Mock Election” (1827), and “Punch”, or “May Day” (1829). Haydon was generally opposed to portraiture, but both the Duke of Wellington and William Wordsworth sat for him. His portrait of the renowned 19th century poet and close personal friend William Wordsworth, entitled “Wordsworth Musing on Helvellyn” (1842), was described by the poet himself as the best likeness of him ever produce
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