David Garrick (1717-1779) ‘The Prologue Portrait’
Sir Joshua Reynolds PRA (Plympton 1723 - London 1792)
Category
Art / Oil paintings
Date
circa 1776
Materials
Oil on canvas
Measurements
762 x 635 mm (30 x 25 in)
Place of origin
England
Order this imageCollection
Knole, Kent
NT 129936
Caption
Reynolds painted many portraits of his friend David Garrick, a dominant figure in 18th century London theatre. In these portraits, Garrick is normally shown as an actor, perhaps dressed as a specific character or playing a particular role. The most celebrated example of this type, Garrick Between Tragedy and Comedy, is now on display at Waddeston Manor (National Trust) and is one of the most important paintings of Reynolds’s entire career. The present picture shows Garrick composing a prologue to be delivered at the start of a performance. It was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1776, the year of Garrick’s retirement, and acquired by the 3rd Duke in 1778. Several versions (as well as copies by other artists) are known. It was also engraved.
Summary
Oil painting on canvas, David Garrick (1717-1779) ‘The Prologue Portrait’ by Sir Joshua Reynolds (Plympton 1723 - London 1792), circa 1776. A half-length portrait, turned slightly to the left, gazing at the spectator seated at a table on which are quill, books and folio entitled Prologue, his hands clasped and his thumbs pressed together, wearing a brown coat, white lace stock and cuffs, and powdered wig.
Provenance
On loan from the Trustees of the Sackville Estate
Makers and roles
Sir Joshua Reynolds PRA (Plympton 1723 - London 1792), publisher
References
Mannings 2000: David Mannings, Sir Joshua Reynolds: A Complete Catalogue of his Paintings. The Subject Pictures catalogued by Martin Postle, New Haven & London 2000, no. 700, p.209