Portrait Of A Lady C.1815, George Henry Harlow (1787-1819)

In this exquisite and highly decorative portrait as much attention is paid to the woman's attire as her beautiful facial features which are defined with lightness and dexterity. Harlow was a highly regarded portrait painter and in this example, it is touching evidence that he knew how to get to the heart and soul of his subjects. This portrait is comparable on stylistic and compositional grounds to the studio Sir Thomas Lawrence RA FRS, 1769 1830 although it is the work of George Henry Harlow (1787–1819) who was a pupil of the Lawrence studio. The fluid handling shows all the vigour and style of the early English portrait and the influence of Lawrence, the clear fresh palette, the bright eyes, the beautiful rendering, and the background. The portrait has an intimate feel, popular in the early 19th century, and is a sublime example. Held in a good quality frame. Born and raised in London, George Henry Harlow entered Thomas Lawrence's studio in 1803, and began exhibiting at the Royal Academy the following year. Precocious and prodigiously productive, Harlow had great success with portraits and theatrical subjects. His portraits of ladies were always graceful and pleasing and he worked with industry and enthusiasm. He is said to have possessed a power of rapid observation. In 1818 he traveled to Italy to study the Old Masters. At Rome he was fêted and flattered in every direction. Canova was especially attracted by him, and obtained him an introduction to the pope. His artistic progress in Italy was remarkable, but on his return to England he died at thirty-one in 1819. Provenance: Uk Private Collection Measurements: Height 93cm, Width 83cm framed (Height 36.5”, Width 32.75” framed)