Joshua Reynolds Studio: Sir Abraham Hume

Joshua Reynolds Studio: Sir Abraham Hume – Oil Painting (Collectible)

An exceptional oil painting attributed to the studio of Sir Joshua Reynolds, one of the most influential British portraitists of the Georgian era. This distinguished half-length portrait, dating from circa 1800, depicts Sir Abraham Hume, 2nd Baronet, attired in a vivid red coat, and exemplifies the refined and elegant style prevalent at the turn of the nineteenth century.

Origin: England

Date: Circa 1800

Material: Oil on canvas

Dimensions: 68 cm x 56 cm

Condition: Retains an excellent patina; minor and sensitive restoration in keeping with age.

Portraits from the Reynolds studio are highly sought after for their historical resonance and artistic quality. Reynolds, famed for his presidency of the Royal Academy and his sophisticated painterly approach, greatly influenced British art and the portrayal of aristocratic sitters. This particular example, with its dignified yet approachable rendering, recalls works found in prominent museum collections such as the National Portrait Gallery.

Notable Features:

• Hand-painted with deft brushwork typical of Reynolds’ circle, particularly in the rendering of textiles and flesh tones
• Classical composition, with subtle use of light to accentuate the subject’s features and attire
• Fine Georgian period detailing, including the richly hued red coat and restrained background
• Collectable provenance, attributed to one of the era’s most celebrated studios

The craftsmanship is evident in every brushstroke, from the nuanced shading of the subject’s visage to the intricate play of fabric textures. The oil on canvas medium offers both richness of colour and a luminous surface, reflecting the Neoclassical influences that Reynolds championed. The balance and formality apparent in this painting underscore the Regency taste for symmetry and poised elegance.

This artwork offers a rare opportunity for collectors of English oil paintings, especially those with an interest in notable sitters and premier artistic workshops. Its scale is suitable for prominent display in a home or office setting, serving equally as a sophisticated decorative focus or as an important addition to a serious collection of British portraiture.