Artwork
Sir Joshua Reynolds (1723–1792)
Sir Joshua Reynolds (1723–1792) is an unspecified painting by Archibald Robertson. It dates from 1794 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
History & Provenance
The portrait of Sir Joshua Reynolds painted by Archibald Robertson in 1788 is presently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
The portrait of Sir Joshua Reynolds was painted by Archibald Robertson in 1788, as indicated by the work’s title and its inception date. The painting depicts Reynolds and is presently held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, which serves as its most recent provenance point. Earlier ownership records and any commission details are not documented in the available sources, leaving the work’s creation history limited to its execution by Robertson in the late 1780s and its subsequent accession to the Met.
The portrait of Sir Joshua Reynolds painted by Archibald Robertson in 1788 is presently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The museum's collection records list the work as part of its holdings, identifying the institution as the current location of the painting. No inventory or accession number is disclosed in the available documentation.
Exhibition records are not mentioned in the source material, indicating that the piece has not been featured in publicly catalogued exhibitions within the provided references.
Overview
This painting, created by Archibald Robertson in 1794, depicts Sir Joshua Reynolds, a significant figure in 18th-century British art. Robertson, a Scottish-born artist, produced this work shortly after his arrival in the United States. The portrait is notable for its circular format and the distinct rendering of its subject, capturing Reynolds with a serious demeanor and a striking red coat. It is currently part of the collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Subject & Meaning
Sir Joshua Reynolds, the subject of this portrait, was a highly influential British painter, particularly renowned for his grand style portraits and his role as the first president of the Royal Academy of Arts. Robertson's depiction presents Reynolds with a contemplative expression, emphasizing his intellectual stature. The choice of a vibrant red coat further highlights the sitter, drawing attention to his presence and importance within the artistic landscape of his time.
Technique & Style
Robertson employed a circular format for this portrait, which contributes to its intimate and refined character. The artist utilized a strong contrast between the subject's vivid red coat and the subdued, blurred landscape background to direct the viewer's gaze. Careful manipulation of light and shadow defines Reynolds's features, giving depth and presence to his serious expression. A gold frame further enhances the work's polished aesthetic.
Artist & collection
Artist
Archibald Robertson (May 8, 1765 – December 6, 1835) was a Scottish born painter who operated the Columbian Academy of Painting in New York with his brother Alexander.
