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Self-Portrait

1795
Not on view
Scholars believe this to be the self‑portrait described by the artist’s son John as follows: “In the winter of 1795 he painted a head of himself, which, though slight, and not entirely finished. . . . shows uncommon power of execution; the likeness also is strong, but there is a certain expression of languor that indicates the approach of disease.” Despite Romney’s failing health, his characteristic bravura brushwork is apparent in the furrowed brow and unkempt white hair.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Self-Portrait
  • Artist: George Romney (British, Beckside, Lancashire 1734–1802 Kendal, Cumbria)
  • Date: 1795
  • Medium: Oil on canvas
  • Dimensions: 30 x 25 in. (76.2 x 63.5 cm)
  • Classification: Paintings
  • Credit Line: Bequest of Maria DeWitt Jesup, from the collection of her husband, Morris K. Jesup, 1914
  • Object Number: 15.30.37
  • Curatorial Department: European Paintings

More Artwork

More Artwork
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Mourning Figures: possibly a copy after a fresco by Cimabue, George Romney British, Pen and brown ink over traces of black chalk
Mourning Figures: possibly a copy after a fresco by Cimabue
George Romney
Giovanni Cimabue
ca. 1773–75
The Rev. William Atkinson, wearing a broad-brimmed hat, George Romney British, Graphite
The Rev. William Atkinson, wearing a broad-brimmed hat
George Romney
The Reverend William Atkinson
ca. 1760
Study of two figures: one seated, the other standing (recto). Study of a head looking upwards (verso), George Romney British, Graphite with traces of pen and brown ink at upper right
Study of two figures: one seated, the other standing (recto). Study of a head looking upwards (verso)
George Romney
ca. 1777
John Howard Visiting a Lazaretto (recto); Titania and Her Fairies (verso), George Romney British, Pen and black ink, brush and gray wash, over graphite
John Howard Visiting a Lazaretto (recto); Titania and Her Fairies (verso)
George Romney
John Howard
ca. 1790–92
Emma Hamilton
George Romney
ca. 1900

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