Portrait of George, 5th Duke of Marlborough, with Blenheim Palace in the Distance

Sitter George Spencer-Churchill, 5th Duke of Marlborough [Marquess of Blandford] British

1817–21

Not on view

The British miniaturist Cosway used graphite to create this small full-length portrait, adding watercolor to define the face. George, 5th Duke of Marlborough wears historical fancy dress consisting of a short brocaded jacket with slashed sleeves, tight hose, short boots, a cloak, plumed hat and sword. Blenheim Palace is glimpsed in the background with emphasis placed on the Column of Victory, a monument completed in 1730 and topped with a statue of John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Portrait of George, 5th Duke of Marlborough, with Blenheim Palace in the Distance
Artist: Richard Cosway (British, Oakford, Devon 1742–1821 London)
Sitter: George Spencer-Churchill, 5th Duke of Marlborough [Marquess of Blandford] (British, 1766–1840)
Date: 1817–21
Medium: Graphite and watercolor
Dimensions: Sheet: 8 15/16 × 5 1/2 in. (22.7 × 14 cm)
Classification: Drawings
Credit Line: Bequest of Brooke Russell Astor, 2007
Object Number: 2013.1131.1
Curatorial Department: Drawings and Prints

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