PORTRAIT OF A LADY - BY SIR. NATHANIEL DANCE - HOLLAND R.A (1735-1811)
 

A particularly fine quality, 18th century English, portrait of a beauty (traditionally identified as Eliza Fitzgerald) by the acclaimed artist Sir Nathaniel Dance- Holland R.A. The graceful and attractive sitter stands three-quarter length, upon a terrace. She wears an elegant white draped dress with blue silk sash, a fine feathered hat, and her right arm rests upon an elaborately embroidered shawl.

(The sitter was possibly one of the children of James Fitzgerald, 1st Duke of Leinster and Emilia Mary, daughter of Charles, 2nd Duke of Richmond and Lennox.)

Sir. Nathaniel Dance-Holland R.A (1735-1811) Nathaniel Dance was one of the most notable portrait painters of the 18th century, and Britain’s first neoclassical artist. The third son of architect George Dance the Elder, Dance (he added the 'Holland' suffix later in life) he studied art under Francis Hayman, and like many of his contemporaries, he also travelled to Italy where he studied with Pompeo Batoni.

Dance may have started his career as a history painter, but he rapidly became known for his portraits, the best of which were of people on the Grand Tour. Whilst in Rome the artists passion for fellow painter Angelica Kaufman was also ignited, with the pair even intending to marry upon their return to England, sadly this did not happen.

Once back in England, Dance built upon his success as a portrait painter. In 1768 he was  one of the founder members of the Royal Academy, alongside Hayman and his architect brother George Dance. He was commissioned to paint King George III and his queen, and other celebrated sitters that include Captain James Cook and actor David Garrick.

Perhaps perceiving his talent as a trade, rather than the occupation for a gentleman, Dance gave up painting when he was returned as the Member of Parliament for East Grinstead in Sussex in 1790. He was knighted in 1800 and in an attempt to further disassociate himself from his previous career he even destroyed some of his works! Happily this fine example of his oeuvre survives!

This museum quality portrait is presented in an excellent state of conservation and is ready to hang and enjoy in a later high quality gilded frame.

Higher resolution images on request. 
Worldwide shipping available.

Canvas: 30 x 41" / 76m x 104cm. Frame: 37.5" x 48" / 95cm x 122m.

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