Queen Victoria

Thomas Sully

Created:
Movement:
1838
Romanticism
key Notes:
Regal portraiture, Romantic elegance
Share:
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
Dimensions:
94 x 58 in. (238.8 x 147.3 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Easy
New game
story of the work:

"Queen Victoria" is a portrait painted by American artist Thomas Sully in 1838. The painting depicts Queen Victoria shortly after her ascension to the throne at the age of 18. Sully was commissioned to create this work, which reflects the artist's interest in capturing the likeness and character of his subjects. The portrait showcases Victoria in a formal gown, adorned with jewels, emphasizing her royal status. Sully's technique is characterized by a soft, romantic style, which was popular during the period. The painting is notable for its attention to detail and the expressive quality of the queen's face. It is part of the collection at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. The exact circumstances of the commission and the painting's reception at the time of its unveiling are not well-documented.

Description of the work:

"Queen Victoria," painted by Thomas Sully in 1838, is an oil on canvas portrait that captures the young queen in a formal pose. The composition features Queen Victoria adorned in an elaborate gown, characterized by intricate detailing and rich fabrics that convey her royal status. The color palette is dominated by deep blues and golds, enhancing the opulence of her attire. Sully employs soft brushwork to create a lifelike representation of the queen's facial features, which exhibit a sense of dignity and grace. The background is subtly rendered, allowing the figure of the queen to remain the focal point of the work. The painting exemplifies the Romantic style, emphasizing emotional expression and the grandeur of monarchy.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

Could this content be improved?

Please let us know and we will be happy to correct it. We have put a ton of effort into collating and organizing all of this.
We may follow up with questions.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
Queen Victoria