William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland (1721-1765) c.1745-50
Oil on canvas | 51.2 x 41.0 cm (support, canvas/panel/stretcher external) | RCIN 406869
-
Morier was a Swiss military and sporting painter who started working for William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland (1721-65) in 1747, when he painted a series of pictures of troops under his command. From 1752 until 1764 he was employed as ‘limner’ (painter) to the Duke on an annual salary of £100; his name also appears regularly in royal accounts from 1764 to 1767. The Duke is mounted on a rearing grey charger, wearing the frock uniform of the 1st Guards, a breastplate and the riband and star of the order of the Garter; a battle rages beyond.
Provenance
Acquired by George IV probably in 1808; listed in the Armory at Carlton House in 1816 (no 458) and 1819 (no 499); taken to Kew Palace
-
Medium and techniques
Oil on canvas
Measurements
51.2 x 41.0 cm (support, canvas/panel/stretcher external)
59.2 x 49.0 x 3.9 cm (frame, external)