Artwork
Helen Hunter, née Wilkie (1793–1870)
Helen Hunter, née Wilkie (1793–1870) is an oil painting by the British Romanticist artist David Wilkie. It dates from 1830 and is held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.
About this work
Overview
This 1830 oil painting, titled 'Helen Hunter, née Wilkie (1793–1870)', is a portrait by Scottish artist David Wilkie, held in the Ashmolean Museum's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts Helen Hunter, Wilkie's wife, in a formal style, conveying quiet dignity and elegance through her serious expression and attire.
Technique & Style
Characterized by a warm, golden background contrasting with the cool tones of the subject's clothing, the painting exemplifies Wilkie's skill in portraiture, aligning with the British Romantic movement.
History & Provenance
David Wilkie, known for diverse subjects and genre scenes, was Principal Painter in Ordinary to King William IV and Queen Victoria, underscoring his prominence at the time of this work's creation.
Artist & collection
Artist
Sir David Wilkie (18 November 1785 – 1 June 1841) was a Scottish painter, especially known for his genre scenes.
The Highland Family
Napoleon and Pope Pius VII at Fontainebleau in 1813
Self-Portrait
The blind violinist
Portrait of Daniel O'Connell as Governor of the National Bank
Portrait of the Artist's Brother, Captain James Wilkie (1784 - 1824)
The Irish Whiskey Still
The Artist's Sister, Helen Hunter, née Wilkie (1793–1870)
