Who painted The Late Henry Holland, Esq.?

The Late Henry Holland, Esq. was painted by George Garrard in 1806.

Where can I see The Late Henry Holland, Esq.?

The Late Henry Holland, Esq. is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is The Late Henry Holland, Esq.?

The Late Henry Holland, Esq. is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

The Late Henry Holland, Esq.

George Garrard , 1806

The Late Henry Holland, Esq. is a print by the Romanticist artist George Garrard. It dates from 1806 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

He designed homes, streets, and even big spots like Carlton House for the Prince of Wales.

This print portrays Henry Holland, a well-known architect from the 1800s. Made right after his death in 1806, it’s the only printed portrait of him. The image shows him sitting on a stile with Chelsea’s skyline behind.

Holland left his mark on London. He designed homes, streets, and even big spots like Carlton House for the Prince of Wales. His work shaped areas like Sloane Street and Chelsea.

Want to see more prints from this time? Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Overview

This early 19th‑century print presents the architect Henry Holland (1745‑1806) shortly after his death, offering the sole printed likeness known of the figure. In the image Holland is seated on a low step, with the façade of his own Chelsea villa at Hans Place visible behind him.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait underscores Holland’s personal connection to the Chelsea development he oversaw, situating him within the built environment he created. By placing him before his detached villa, the composition links the man to his architectural legacy in the area.

Technique & Style

The work is a proof for a finished print, one of two known preparatory impressions. Executed in the printmaking methods of the period, the image balances line work with tonal shading to render both the figure’s features and the architectural background.

History & Provenance

Produced shortly after Holland’s death in 1806, the print was likely commissioned to commemorate his career. It is catalogued alongside a companion proof (reference E.221‑2002) and the final printed version (reference E.222‑2002) in the museum’s collection.

Context

Holland’s career encompassed large‑scale urban projects in Chelsea, including the layout of Sloane Street and the development of Cadogan Place and Hans Place. He also oversaw the enlargement of Carlton House for the Prince of Wales, contributed to improvements at Woburn Abbey, and designed the 1791 Drury Lane Theatre for Richard B. Sheridan.