Miss Elizabeth Beauclerc as Una with the Lion

Sir Joshua Reynolds

Created:
Movement:
1778
None
key Notes:
Allegorical representation, Child portraiture.
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Dimensions:
29 x 24 1/4 in. (73.7 x 61.6 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Master
New game
story of the work:

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Miss Elizabeth Beauclerc as Una with the Lion by Sir Joshua Reynolds

Miss Elizabeth Beauclerc as Una with the Lion, painted by Sir Joshua Reynolds in 1778, is an exemplary work of the British portrait tradition, executed in oil on canvas. This painting reflects Reynolds' adeptness at combining portraiture with allegorical themes, a hallmark of his artistic style. The depiction of Miss Elizabeth Beauclerc as Una, a character from Edmund Spenser's epic poem "The Faerie Queene," underscores Reynolds' engagement with literary subjects, enhancing the cultural resonance of his work. As the first president of the Royal Academy of Arts, Reynolds played a pivotal role in shaping the British art scene of the 18th century, advocating for the Grand Style in painting. His influence extended beyond his own works, as he mentored numerous artists and contributed significantly to the discourse on art theory and practice during his time. This painting not only exemplifies Reynolds' technical skill but also his ability to infuse portraits with narrative depth and intellectual vigor.

Description of the work:

Miss Elizabeth Beauclerc as Una with the Lion

Painted by Sir Joshua Reynolds in 1778, "Miss Elizabeth Beauclerc as Una with the Lion" is an oil on canvas work that exemplifies the artist's mastery of the Grand Manner style, characterized by its idealized depiction of the subject. The painting portrays Miss Elizabeth Beauclerc as Una, a character from Edmund Spenser's "The Faerie Queene," accompanied by a lion, symbolizing virtue and strength.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Harvard Art Museum

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Miss Elizabeth Beauclerc as Una with the Lion