Historic Antique Paintings

Description

Fine Quality Georgian Period (1714-1830) Oil Portrait Painting On Canvas Of Gentleman Identified As Henry Taylor Esquire Per [ Inscription Verso ]

This portrait has been expertly rendered by a competent hand which depicts an important looking gentleman, probably a Lawyer or legal person.
He wears a black high collared coat with dark blue waistcoat over which is worn a
white neck scarf or cravat which is painted with a virtuoso handling of the white fabric

The flesh tones present a clear fresh pallet helping to create an attractive portrait.
The sitters distinct heavy black sideburns
are a memorable feature.
The artist also paid attention to detail and realism, note the subtle gleam in the eyes. This is a good example of the artist’s work.

The sitter Henry looks directly towards the artist with a concentrated gaze whilst presenting an important letter held in hand which bears a prominent red wax seal.

ABOUT THE ARTIST
This professional work has very similar characteristics to works by Scottish artist Henry Raeburn.

ARTIST Sir Henry Raeburn FRSE RA RSA
b.4 March 1756 – d. 8 July 1823)
Was a British portrait painter and Scotland's first significant portrait painter since the Union to remain based in Scotland. He served as Portrait Painter to King George IV in Scotland.

EARLY LIFE
Raeburn was born the son of a manufacturer in Stockbridge, on the Water of Leith: a former village now within the city of Edinburgh. He had an older brother, born in 1744, called William Raeburn. His ancestors were believed to have been soldiers, and may have taken the name "Raeburn" from a hill farm in Annandale, held by Sir Walter Scott's family. Orphaned, he was supported by William and placed in Heriot's Hospital, where he received an education.

At the age of fifteen he was apprenticed to the goldsmith James Gilliland of Edinburgh, and various pieces of jewellery, mourning rings and the like, adorned with minute drawings on ivory by his hand, still exist. Soon he took to the production of carefully finished portrait miniatures meeting with success and patronage, he extended his practice to oil painting, at which he was self-taught.

Raeburn spent his life in Edinburgh, rarely visiting London, and then only for brief periods, thus preserving his individuality.

Raeburn had all the essential qualities of a popular and successful portrait painter. He was able to produce a telling and forcible likeness his work is distinguished by powerful characterisation, stark realism, dramatic and unusual lighting effects, and swift and broad handling of the most resolute sort.

In 1812 he was elected president of the Society of Artists in Edinburgh and in 1814 associate, and in the following year full member, of the Royal Scottish Academy. On 29 Aug 1822 he received a knighthood during The visit of King George IV to Scotland and appointed His Majesty's limner for Scotland at the Earl of Hopetoun house.He died in Edinburgh not long after on 8th July 1823.

CONDITION
A substantial Georgian portrait in very good condition after past professional clean.

ORIGINAL SWEPT FRAME
It is presented in a large, heavy fine period frame. which is extremely decorative and typical of the period.The frame is in very good order commensurate with its age and has no losses.

FRAMED MEASUREMENTS
Height 42 Inches ( 107cm )
Width 37 Inches ( 94cm )

DELIVERY [ Options ]
UK Mainland Postal Courier ( Next Day Recorded ) £125
UK Mainland ( Man & Van / 7-14 Days ) £80
Worldwide Supply ( Please Provide Address For Quotes )

TELEPHONE ENQUIRIES: 07547 617528

ITEM REF: CLC/005/A