Artwork
Portrait of Jonathan Swift (1667-1745), Satirist
Portrait of Jonathan Swift (1667-1745), Satirist is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Francis Bindon. It dates from 1735 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland.
About this work
Overview
This 1735 oil painting by Francis Bindon portrays Jonathan Swift, a renowned 18th-century satirist. Characterized by its use of dramatic lighting, the work exemplifies the rococo style.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Jonathan Swift, is depicted in a serious demeanor, dressed in a black coat and white cravat, holding a paper that subtly alludes to his literary profession. The overall composition conveys a sense of gravity and intellectual presence.
Technique & Style
Bindon employed chiaroscuro, a technique emphasizing strong contrasts between light and dark, to sharply define Swift's features against a dark background. This approach was common in 1730s portraiture to convey power and importance.
History & Provenance
Created by Francis Bindon, an Irish architect and portraitist active from circa 1690 to 1765, the painting is now part of the National Gallery of Ireland's collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Francis Bindon (c. 1690 – 1765) was a popular architect and painter in 18th century Ireland. Bindon was highly regarded by his contemporaries and was commissioned to design buildings and paint portraits for some of…
