Artwork
Sir Joshua Reynolds (1723–1792)
Sir Joshua Reynolds (1723–1792) is an unspecified painting by the Neoclassicist artist Thomas Peat. It dates from 1796 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Reynolds is shown with white hair, glasses, and a dark coat, his face rendered with a calm yet perceptive expression.
This small oval enamel painting by Thomas Peat depicts the esteemed artist Sir Joshua Reynolds (1723–1792). Reynolds is shown with white hair, glasses, and a dark coat, his face rendered with a calm yet perceptive expression. The smooth, glass-like quality of the enamel medium allows for a clear and focused presentation of the subject, highlighting the intricate details of his features against a simple background.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait captures Sir Joshua Reynolds in a dignified manner, featuring his white hair tied back and his distinctive round glasses. He wears a white cravat and a dark purple coat, which contrasts subtly with his complexion. The artist, Thomas Peat, meticulously rendered Reynolds's facial features, including the subtle lines of age and the play of light on his skin. The plain background ensures the viewer's attention remains solely on the sitter's composed yet alert countenance.
Technique & Style
Thomas Peat utilized the challenging medium of enamel to create this portrait. Enamel painting involves fusing powdered glass onto a metal surface, resulting in a durable image with a distinctive smooth, glass-like finish. This technique allowed Peat to achieve vibrant, lasting colors and a precise level of detail.
The careful application of light and shadow on Reynolds's face demonstrates the artist's skill in manipulating this intricate medium to convey both texture and expression.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Thomas Peat was a British portrait painter active from around 1791 into the early nineteenth century, working chiefly in miniature in both watercolour and enamel.
John Beresford (1738-1805), MP
Stephen Hooper
Alexander Baron Seton (1738-1814), jur.dr., godsägare, född i Skottland, verksam i Sverige och Skottland, g.m. 1. Elizabeth Angus, 2. Anne Innes of Cathlow, systerson till och adopterad av George Seton
Self-Portrait
Herman Wolters (1682-1756). husband of the painter
Portrait of a Man, Said to Be James Madison (1751–1836)
John Campbell
Portrait of a man
Portrait of a Man
Gourgeon
