Painted by Thomas Lawrence in 1799 as a "school-leaving" portrait, the romantic likeness of eighteen year old Andrew Reid (1783-1801) was painted during the artist's finest period in the 1790s when he was living at Greek Street in Soho. Shown in three-quarter length, the sitter wears a cutaway black coat, white vest, white stock (with red trim?), and tan trousers. He was the eldest son of Andrew Reid of Lionstown, Barnet, and his first wife Harriet Gildard. Andrew's father was a famous brewer of London stout who was the founder of Reid's Brewery on Liqourpond Street. Andrew's mother was granddaughter of Richard Gildart, who was twice mayor of Liverpool. Andrew entered Harrow school in 1793 and left in 1799, at which time this portrait was commissioned Lawrence executed a best-length portrait of the elder Reid, and a full-length portrait of Harriet. Andrew died in 1801 on board the Lady Jane Dundas bound for India.
Sir Thomas Lawrence, R.A.
Portrait of Andrew Reid, c. 1799
oil on canvas, 49" x 39 1/4"
Published in: Kenneth Garlick, Sir Thomas Lawrence (1989), p. 257, as no. 673
1 comment:
What a handsome portrait. I wonder if this is based on a Rembrandt on view in London since it is reminiscent of his warm honey browns. However only like Rembrandt in its coloring - not psychology - A bit more wit then wisdom in this fellow.
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