Hercules Brabazon Brabazon
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.The career of H. B. Brabazon (1821–1906) reflects the extraordinary modesty of a private man. A wealthy Irish landowner, he traveled widely, creating brilliant impromptu watercolors. Though Brabazon was an artist of flair and originality, he never exhibited his works. His friends, especially Sargent, finally persuaded him to display his watercolors at the New English Art Club, London, in 1891. They caused a sensation, and at the age of seventy, Brabazon became a minor celebrity. Sargent was a tireless champion of Brabazon’s work, and acquired a large selection for himself.
The simplicity of Sargent’s portrait seems to match the easygoing, unassuming character of the sitter. The austere profile pose and black costume are softened by the slight turn of the head, the glowing flesh tones, the gentleness of the expression, and the lavender-tinted background.
The simplicity of Sargent’s portrait seems to match the easygoing, unassuming character of the sitter. The austere profile pose and black costume are softened by the slight turn of the head, the glowing flesh tones, the gentleness of the expression, and the lavender-tinted background.
Artwork Details
- Title: Hercules Brabazon Brabazon
- Artist: John Singer Sargent (American, Florence 1856–1925 London)
- Date: 1893–95
- Culture: American
- Medium: Oil on canvas
- Dimensions: 28 7/8 × 17 in. (73.3 × 43.2 cm)
- Credit Line: National Portrait Gallery, London
- Curatorial Department: The American Wing