Joseph Reade

"Joseph Reade" is a portrait painted by John Wollaston between 1749 and 1752. The subject, Joseph Reade, was a prominent figure in colonial America, known for his involvement in the mercantile trade. Wollaston was an English portrait painter who immigrated to America and became known for his distinctive style that combined elements of English portraiture with American sensibilities. The painting exemplifies Wollaston's technique, characterized by a focus on the sitter's individuality and the use of rich colors. The work is part of the collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Specific details about the commission or the relationship between Wollaston and Reade are unknown.

"Joseph Reade" by John Wollaston, created between 1749 and 1752, is an oil on canvas portrait that exemplifies the artist's skill in rendering likeness and character. The composition features a seated male figure, Joseph Reade, dressed in period attire that includes a dark coat and a white cravat, indicative of his social status. The subject's posture is relaxed yet dignified, with his right arm resting on the arm of a chair, suggesting a sense of confidence. The background is a muted, neutral tone that enhances the focus on Reade's figure, while soft lighting creates a subtle play of shadows across his face and clothing. Wollaston's attention to detail is evident in the texture of the fabrics and the lifelike quality of Reade's expression, which conveys a sense of introspection. The overall palette is characterized by rich, warm tones, contributing to the painting's depth and warmth. The work reflects the stylistic conventions of 18th-century portraiture, emphasizing both individuality and social identity.