The Rev. William Gayle

n.d.

Reverend William Gayle was a slave who later became a preacher in Virginia after obtaining his freedom. This work was included in several publications including American Vernacular by Ricco Maresco. This piece was also one of several works that was included in the Philadelphia Museum’s installation (around late 1992) which was inspired by biblial tales and illustrates the strong influence traditional religious beliefs has on the motifs utilized by many folk artists. The piece shown was made using mixed hardwood and painted. c. 1870. Other info on William Gayle would be appreciated to complete his bio.