William Essex (1784-1869), after Thomas Phillips, R. A. (1770-1845)

Details

William Essex (1784-1869), after Thomas Phillips, R. A. (1770-1845)

Sir David Wilkie, in black cloak, green coat with black collar, red waistcoat, white cravat and jewelled stick pin, holding paper and a paint brush in his left hand, red curtain background drawn to one side to reveal a painting at an easel

enamel, signed and inscribed on the reverse David Wilkie Esq. R. A. After the original picture by Thos. Phillips Esq. R. A. W. Essex. Pinxt. 1836, Enamel Painter to H.R.H. the Princess Augusta, rectangular ormolu frame with scrolling foliate border
octagonal, 5 1/8in. (130mm.) high

Literature

Walker, 1985, Vol. II, p. 560

Exhibited

Royal Academy, London, 1837, no. 656

Lot Essay

Sir David Wilkie (1785-1841), son of the minister of Cults, Fifeshire, studied in Edinburgh; in 1805, he entered the Royal Academy Schools in London and his work "Village Politicians" exhibited in 1806 made his name. He was elected ARA in 1809, RA in 1811 and succeeded Lawrence as Painter to the King in 1830 and was knighted in 1836. His journey to Italy, Austria, Germany and Spain between 1825-1828 influenced his style dramatically. He died on his way home from the Near East and his burial at sea was commemorated by Turner.
The portrait of Wilkie by Thomas Phillips was exhibited at the Royal Academy, London, 1829, no. 326

More from Silver & Miniatures

View All