Artwork

Portrait of Arthur Wellesley, later 1st Duke of Wellington

Portrait of Arthur Wellesley, later 1st Duke of Wellington, unspecified, 1806
Portrait of Arthur Wellesley, later 1st Duke of Wellington, unspecified, 1806

Portrait of Arthur Wellesley, later 1st Duke of Wellington is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1806 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting presents a formal depiction of Arthur Wellesley, who would later become the 1st Duke of Wellington.

About this work

Technique & Style

The piece is currently held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is cataloged under the accession number 1942.

The Portrait of Arthur Wellesley, later 1st Duke of Wellington, is executed as a portrait miniature, a format characterized by its small scale and intricate detail. Attributed to the British artist John Wright, the work dates to 1806. While the specific support material such as ivory or vellum is not detailed in the provided records, the classification as a miniature indicates a technique involving fine brushwork suitable for close viewing.

The piece is currently held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is cataloged under the accession number 1942.1154.

History & Provenance

This portrait miniature was created in 1806, depicting Arthur Wellesley, who later became the 1st Duke of Wellington. The work is attributed to John Wright (British, 1745–1820), a specialist in portrait miniatures. It is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Overview

This painting presents a formal depiction of Arthur Wellesley, who would later become the 1st Duke of Wellington. The artwork is a portrait, focusing on the figure of a high-ranking military officer. It is currently part of the collection at The Cleveland Museum of Art. The composition emphasizes the subject's authoritative presence through his stance and attire, set against a subdued backdrop.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure, Arthur Wellesley, is shown in a distinguished military uniform, signaling his prominent status. He wears a red coat with elaborate gold detailing, a white sash, and white trousers, all indicative of his rank. His right hand firmly grips a sword, a symbol of his command and military profession, while his left hand rests on an unidentified dark object, further grounding his imposing figure within the frame.

Portrait of Arthur Wellesley, later 1st Duke of Wellington
Portrait of Arthur Wellesley, later 1st Duke of Wellington, John Wright

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I see Portrait of Arthur Wellesley, later 1st Duke of Wellington?

Portrait of Arthur Wellesley, later 1st Duke of Wellington is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Portrait of Arthur Wellesley, later 1st Duke of Wellington?

Portrait of Arthur Wellesley, later 1st Duke of Wellington is associated with Neoclassicism.