PORTRAIT OF A YOUNG GENTLEMAN AND HIS GREYHOUND - BY JOHN VANDERBANK.

A charming and and highly decorative early 18th Century English portrait of an elegant young gentleman and his greyhound, within an extensive landscape. Signed by the artist ‘John Vanderbank 1726’.

The attractive sitter is pictured full length seated upon a rocky outcrop. He gazes directly at us and wearing a particularly rich and vibrant costume. It includes a shimmering blue velvet frock coat (with pink silk lining) white silk waistcoat, red stockings and black square toed shoes with brass buckles. His left hand is perched upon his his and his left rest upon the head of his greyhound which stands beside him.

The present picture, in excellent condition, is one of Vanderbank’s most attractive male portraits. It is presented ready to hang in a remarkable 19th century gilt wood and gesso frame.

John Vanderbank (1694-1739) John Vanderbank was born in London, the son of a Huguenot tapestry weaver from Paris. A painter, draughtsman and illustrator in London he was a pupil of Kneller and Thornhill, and in the years immediately after after Knellers death he had a considerable practice as a portraitist

Vanderbank also established an academy for life-drawing at St Martin's Lane, which included the artist William Hogarth amongst its members. John Vanderbank’s technique is distinct among portraitists of the early eighteenth century. Sadly as a result of a profligate life he died young.

It is worth noting that Vanderbank’s work is characterised by a more vital and nervous drawing than that of his contemporaries, and also by the bold pigmentation and lively drapery that are seen in this portrait.

Higher resolution images on request. Worldwide shipping available.

Canvas: 50” x 40” / 127cm x 102cm. Frame: 62" x 52" / 158cm x 132cm.

Internal Ref: 00102

Price: £19,250

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