An artwork on Galleree from Minneapolis Institute of Art.
About the artwork
Portrait of John Woodyeare1750
Artist: Pompeo Girolamo Batoni
Italian (Rome), 1708–1787
Portrait of John Woodyeare
38 1/2 x 28 1/4 in. (97.79 x 71.76 cm) (canvas)
46 1/4 x 36 1/4 x 4 1/4 in. (117.48 x 92.08 x 10.8 cm) (outer frame)
Oil on canvas
Painting
Italy
18th century
The John R. Van Derlip Fund and funds given in memory of Anthony M. Clark, director of The Minneapolis Institute of Arts, 1963-73
In the heart of the bustling 18th-century Rome, a vibrant energy pulsed through the streets, where art and culture danced in harmony. Amongst the grand architecture and sun-drenched piazzas, there stood a master—Pompeo Girolamo Batoni, the preeminent portrait painter of his time. His talent was not just a skill; it was a delight for the senses, as he breathed life into canvases, capturing the essence of noble and influential figures. Emperors and popes would seek his brush in hopes of eternity, but the lifeblood of his artistry flowed through the portraits of young British gentlemen—like John Woodyeare—on their explorative grand tours.
The year was 1770, and a mere twenty-two summers had graced Woodyeare's life when he wandered into the artist's realm. Picture him standing before Batoni's easel, the air filled with the musk of oil paint and the soft murmurs of admiration from passersby. Unlike the grand compositions adorned with antiquities, Batoni chose to focus solely on Woodyeare—a figure draped in a shimmering gold-braided green tunic, coupled with a luxurious fur-trimmed jacket that whispered tales of adventure. A purple sash cinched his waist, adding an element of flair that hinted at dreams of chivalry and gallantry.
In that moment, the portrait transcended mere artistry; it was a reflection of an era where even the simplest details—the glint of a sword at his side, the delicate fabric of his clothing—spoke volumes. Though the sword was a reminder of old traditions, Woodyeare's attire was inspired by the daring and vibrant uniforms of hussar soldiers from afar, weaving a narrative of exploration and exoticism.
As brush danced on canvas, the spirit of Rome enveloped their encounter, encapsulating the aspirations of youth and the richness of a world yet to be discovered. This portrait was not just a record of a face; it was a portal to the adventures awaiting young men like Woodyeare—an invitation to embark on journeys that promised to shape their destinies in the grand tapestry of life.
About the artist
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