Artwork
Alexander Maconochie (1777–1861) of Meadowbank
Alexander Maconochie (1777–1861) of Meadowbank is an oil painting by Henry Raeburn. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Technique & Style
The portrait is executed in oil paint on canvas, a standard combination for Henry Raeburn's portrait practice. The work measures 76.8 cm in height by 63.5 cm in width, a format consistent with an intimate half-length or bust-length composition. Classified as a painting within the portrait genre, it was produced around 1800.
History & Provenance
Alexander Maconochie (1777–1861) of Meadowbank was painted around 1800 by Sir Henry Raeburn as an oil-on-canvas portrait measuring approximately 76.
Alexander Maconochie (1777–1861) of Meadowbank was painted around 1800 by Sir Henry Raeburn as an oil-on-canvas portrait measuring approximately 76.8 cm in height and 63.5 cm in width. The work depicts the Scottish lawyer in a half-length pose, characteristic of Raeburn's mature style. The painting has been part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection since at least the time of its cataloguing, and no earlier ownership details are provided in the available records.
Overview
Henry Raeburn's 1800 oil painting captures Alexander Maconochie, Lord Meadowbank. This work exemplifies the Scottish artist's skill in portraiture, a genre for which he was widely recognized. The painting is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, offering a glimpse into early 19th-century Scottish society through its depiction of a prominent figure.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait features Alexander Maconochie, who would later become Lord Meadowbank. He is depicted with dark hair, dressed in a black coat over a white shirt, presenting a formal appearance. His direct gaze and serious expression convey a sense of gravitas and authority, characteristic of formal portraiture intended to represent an individual's public persona.
Context
Henry Raeburn was a significant figure in Scottish portraiture during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. His reputation led to his appointment as Portrait Painter to King George IV in Scotland, underscoring his prominence. This portrait of Alexander Maconochie reflects the demand for depictions of notable individuals among the Scottish elite of the period, contributing to a rich tradition of national portraiture.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Sir Henry Raeburn (; 4 March 1756 – 8 July 1823) was a Scottish portrait painter. He served as Portrait Painter to King George IV in Scotland.
