Artwork
Portrait of The Hon. Mrs John Beresford (née Montgomery) (?1757-1788)
Portrait of The Hon. Mrs John Beresford (née Montgomery) (?1757-1788) is an unspecified painting by the Rococo painting artist Hugh Douglas Hamilton. It dates from 1784 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland. Portrait of The Hon.
About this work
Overview
Portrait of The Hon. Mrs John Beresford (née Montgomery) is a portrait painting created by Irish artist Hugh Douglas Hamilton around 1784. The work is characterized by its refined and delicate style, typical of the Rococo movement.
Subject & Meaning
The subject of the portrait is The Hon. Mrs John Beresford (née Montgomery), depicted with understated elegance. Her gentle smile and poised gaze to the right convey a sense of quiet refinement, reflecting the societal ideals of her time.
Technique & Style
Although Hamilton was primarily known for pastel work, this portrait showcases his adaptation to other mediums. The muted gray background, brown dress with white lace collar, and the subject's dark updo hairstyle exemplify the Rococo emphasis on ornamental yet restrained beauty.
History & Provenance
The painting is part of the National Gallery of Ireland's collection. Details of its provenance before entering the gallery are not specified in available information.
Context
Created in the late 18th century, the portrait encapsulates the aesthetic values of the Rococo era, with its focus on delicacy and ornamental detail. It also represents Hamilton's successful transition from pastels to other painting media.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Hugh Douglas Hamilton RHA (c. 1739 – 10 February 1808) was an Irish painter who specialised in portrait painting. He spent considerable periods in London and Rome before returning to Dublin in the early 1790s. Until the…
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