Portrait of a Woman; (reverse, now covered by relining canvas) Study of a Child's Head

John Hoppner

Created:
Movement:
1799
Romanticism
key Notes:
Neoclassical Portraiture, Dual Composition
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Dimensions:
30 x 24 7/8 in. (76.2 x 63.2 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Expert
New game
story of the work:

"Portrait of a Woman; (reverse, now covered by relining canvas) Study of a Child's Head" is a work by British portrait painter John Hoppner, created in the 1790s. Hoppner was known for his flattering and intimate portraits of the British aristocracy. The painting features a woman, whose identity remains unknown, and a study of a child's head on the reverse side, which is now obscured due to relining. Hoppner's technique often involved the use of rich colors and soft brushwork, contributing to the lifelike quality of his subjects. The dual nature of this work reflects Hoppner's versatility as an artist, as well as the practice of reusing canvases during that period. The painting is part of a private collection or museum, but specific details regarding its provenance or current location are not documented.

Description of the work:

"Portrait of a Woman; (reverse, now covered by relining canvas) Study of a Child's Head" by John Hoppner, created in the 1790s, is an oil on canvas work that exemplifies the artist's skill in portraiture. The painting features a woman depicted in a three-quarter pose, characterized by a soft, naturalistic rendering of her features and a delicate play of light and shadow. The woman's attire is indicative of the period, with intricate details that suggest a sense of elegance and refinement. The background is rendered in muted tones, allowing the figure to stand out prominently. On the reverse side, now obscured by relining, is a study of a child's head, showcasing Hoppner's versatility and interest in capturing youthful innocence. The overall composition reflects a harmonious balance between the subjects and their surroundings, highlighting Hoppner's mastery of color and form.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Portrait of a Woman; (reverse, now covered by relining canvas) Study of a Child's Head