Mrs. Richard Brinsley Sheridan (Hester Jane Ogle, 1775/76–1817) and Her Son (Charles Brinsley Sheridan, 1796–1843)

John Hoppner

Created:
Movement:
1810
Romanticism
key Notes:
Maternal Elegance, Neoclassical Portraiture
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Dimensions:
93 3/4 x 59 in. (238.1 x 149.9 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Mrs. Richard Brinsley Sheridan (Hester Jane Ogle, 1775/76–1817) and Her Son (Charles Brinsley Sheridan, 1796–1843)" is a portrait by British painter John Hoppner. The painting depicts Hester Jane Ogle, the wife of playwright Richard Brinsley Sheridan, alongside her son Charles. Hoppner was known for his flattering and intimate portrayals of his subjects, often capturing their character and social status. The exact date of the painting's creation is unknown, but it is believed to have been completed in the early 19th century. Hester Jane Ogle was a prominent figure in London society, and her husband was a significant cultural figure of the time. The work exemplifies Hoppner's skill in rendering fabric and the human form, as well as his ability to convey familial bonds. The painting is part of the collection at the National Gallery of Canada. Further details about the painting's provenance or exhibition history are not widely documented.

Description of the work:

The painting "Mrs. Richard Brinsley Sheridan (Hester Jane Ogle, 1775/76–1817) and Her Son (Charles Brinsley Sheridan, 1796–1843)" by John Hoppner features a seated woman and her young son. The mother is depicted in a flowing white gown, adorned with delicate drapery that highlights her figure. She gazes gently at her son, who stands beside her, dressed in a dark coat with a white collar. The child's expression is one of innocence and curiosity, contributing to the intimate familial connection portrayed in the work. The background is softly rendered, creating a sense of depth while maintaining focus on the subjects. The use of light and shadow enhances the three-dimensionality of the figures, emphasizing their presence within the composition. The overall color palette is warm, with soft tones that evoke a sense of tenderness and affection. The painting exemplifies Hoppner's skill in capturing the nuances of human emotion and the bond between mother and child.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Mrs. Richard Brinsley Sheridan (Hester Jane Ogle, 1775/76–1817) and Her Son (Charles Brinsley Sheridan, 1796–1843)