John Ward, 2nd Viscount Dudley and Ward
Original title: John Ward, 2nd Viscount Dudley and Ward
kurzbeschreibung
Drawn between 1779 and 1802, this portrait by Francesco Bartolozzi captures John Ward, 2nd Viscount Dudley and Ward, in profile. Rendered in black and red chalk on paper, the sheet presents the sitter from the side. The oval format and careful execution bring the subject's facial features to the fore.
Description
An oval field encloses the profile, which faces right. The hair falls in waves and is gathered into a knot at the back of the head. Lines and a serious expression mark the face, which is reproduced with much detail. A plain dark ground makes the features stand out. Dark, subdued tones dominate the palette and create a pensive mood.
Context
The Italian Francesco Bartolozzi (1727–1815) worked in London from 1764 and became one of the leading reproductive engravers there. This portrait dates from the years in which he produced chalk drawings and engravings. It depicts John Ward, 2nd Viscount Dudley and Ward (1750–1823), a British nobleman and politician who sat in the House of Commons between 1774 and 1802. The span 1779–1802 coincides with Bartolozzi's London years, during which he made numerous portraits of the aristocracy.
Impact
Precisely drawn lines and muted colours give the sheet a noble, restrained character. The serious expression and dark surroundings lend the portrait dignity and an almost contemplative air.
Technique
The work was executed in a mixed technique of black and red chalk on paper, subsequently varnished. This allows fine gradations of light and shadow, while the varnish layer protects the surface and deepens the colours.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)