Samuel Foote (1720-1777) (after Reynolds)
George Romney (Dalton-in-Furness 1734 – Kendal 1802)
Category
Art / Oil paintings
Date
circa 1770
Materials
Oil on canvas
Measurements
1300 x 1070 mm
Place of origin
England
Order this imageCollection
Knole, Kent
NT 129928
Caption
Samuel Foote was an actor and dramatist, famed for his comedic satire and mimicry. Foote entertained audiences with his caricatured impressions of other high-profile performers, such as David Garrick (1717-1779), whose portrait is also on display at Knole. In 1766, Foote was involved in a riding accident and, as a result, his leg was later amputated. This portrait dates from after this time; hence the actor is shown supported by a crutch. In fact, Foote was known for imaginatively incorporating his disability into his work and thus further secured his reputation as a comedic performer. According to the 3rd Duke’s account book, this copy was bought in 1778, where it is listed as ‘by Romney’. The current location of the original painting by Reynolds in unknown.
Summary
Oil painting on canvas, Samuel Foote (1720-1777) (after Reynolds) by George Romney (Dalton-in-Furness 1734 – Kendal 1802), c.1770. A three-quarter-length portrait, standing, leaning forward on a stick, gaze and head turned to the left, wearing a light coloured coat and gold brocade waistcoat.
Provenance
On loan from the Trustees of the Sackville Estate
Makers and roles
George Romney (Dalton-in-Furness 1734 – Kendal 1802), artist after Sir Joshua Reynolds PRA (Plympton 1723 - London 1792), artist