Who painted The Letter of Introduction?

The Letter of Introduction was painted by David Wilkie in 1813.

Where can I see The Letter of Introduction?

The Letter of Introduction is held by National Galleries Scotland.

What movement is The Letter of Introduction?

The Letter of Introduction is associated with British Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of The Letter of Introduction?

Museum-quality prints of The Letter of Introduction are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

The Letter of Introduction

David Wilkie , 1813

The Letter of Introduction is an oil painting by the British Romanticist artist David Wilkie. It dates from 1813 and is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.

About this work

The Letter of Introduction is a genre painting. It was created by David Wilkie in 1813.

The painting shows a young man in an awkward situation. He has called on a potential patron with a worthless letter of introduction. This situation is the main focus of the painting.

You can learn more about the artist who created this work, the artist: David Wilkie.

Overview

The Letter of Introduction is a genre painting executed in oil paint by British artist David Wilkie in 1813.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a young man, likely a gentleman scholar, in an awkward situation, having presented a worthless letter of introduction to a potential patron. The patron's unwelcoming expression and his dog's hostility underscore the embarrassment of the moment.

Technique & Style

As a genre painting, The Letter of Introduction showcases Wilkie's skill in capturing everyday life with attention to detail and emotional nuance.