Artwork
George Howard (1773–1848), Lord Morpeth
George Howard (1773–1848), Lord Morpeth is an unspecified painting by the Neoclassicist artist Richard Collins. It dates from 1803 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Subject & Meaning
The work portrays George Howard, later the 6th Earl of Carlisle, depicted as a young boy at the time of its creation in 1803.
The work portrays George Howard, later the 6th Earl of Carlisle, depicted as a young boy at the time of its creation in 1803. As a formal portrait, the painting's primary subject is the individual himself, capturing his likeness during childhood. The meaning of the piece lies in its function as a commemorative image of the future peer, documenting his appearance and status as a member of the Howard family at the beginning of the 19th century.
History & Provenance
This portrait depicting George Howard, later the 6th Earl of Carlisle, was executed by the artist Richard Collins in 1803, when the subject was still a boy. Specific details regarding the original commission or intermediate ownership prior to its current location are not provided in the available records. The painting is currently held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Overview
This painting, created by Richard Collins in 1803, presents a likeness of George Howard, who would later become the 6th Earl of Carlisle. At the time of its creation, he held the courtesy title Lord Morpeth. The work is currently part of the collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, offering a glimpse into early 19th-century portraiture.
Technique & Style
Rendered in a small, oval format, this painting emphasizes the sitter's face against a dark, unadorned background. Collins employed a clear, unembellished style, avoiding elaborate brushwork or superfluous details to maintain focus on the subject. The intimate scale and precise execution suggest its function as a miniature, possibly intended for personal display or as a portable keepsake.
Artist & collection
Artist
Richard Collins was an English painter who specialised in portrait miniature.
