Portrait Of A Gentleman In A Grey Coat And White Cravat C.1730, Oil On Canvas Painting

This striking portrait by Hans Hysing, a noteworthy painter in England, is significant in its quality and its remarkable state of preservation.  It is a good example of the English eighteenth century portrait. The sitter is presented here in clothes consistent with a date of circa 1730: a carefully powdered wig, a grey jacket and waist coat, and white stock around his neck.  At this time England’s upper classes entered a new era of prosperity.  No longer the preserve of royalty, commissioned portraits - of oneself or one’s ancestors - became a coveted symbol of wealth and status.  The portraits took pride of place in the home or were given to others as gifts.  As such portraiture in England developed a distinctive ‘Englishness’.  This portrait is a sublime example of this restrained but yet engaging portrait style.   

Held in a good quality period frame.  

Hans Hysing (1678-1752 or 1753) was a distinguished Swedish painter who enjoyed a successful career in England.  Starting as an apprentice goldsmith in Sweden, Hysing honed his artistic skills under the guidance of the esteemed portrait painter David von Krafft. In 1700, he took a bold step by joining fellow Swede Michael Dahl in London, where he displayed unparalleled dedication as both a pupil and studio assistant.  

By 1715, Hysing was thriving as a solo artist, captivating audiences with his portraits. Unlike his contemporaries, Hysing enjoyed the patronage of not only the Hanoverian royal family but also the influential Whig leaders, a testament to his versatility and appeal. He painted notable full-length portraits of distinguished figures such as Princess Anne, Princess Amelia, and Princess Caroline, alongside illustrious personalities like Sir Robert Walpole and Richard Onslow, Speaker of the House of Commons.  

Measurements: Height 93cm, Width 80cm framed (Height 36.5”, Width 31.5” framed)