Who painted John Beresford (1738-1805), MP?

John Beresford (1738-1805), MP was painted by Gilbert Stuart in 1796.

Where can I see John Beresford (1738-1805), MP?

John Beresford (1738-1805), MP is held by National Gallery of Ireland.

What movement is John Beresford (1738-1805), MP?

John Beresford (1738-1805), MP is associated with American Impressionism.

Artwork

John Beresford (1738-1805), MP

Gilbert Stuart , 1796

John Beresford (1738-1805), MP is an oil painting by the American Impressionist artist Gilbert Stuart. It dates from 1796 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland.

About this work

Overview

Gilbert Stuart’s 1796 oil portrait presents John Beresford, a British parliamentarian who lived from 1738 to 1805. Executed in the late eighteenth century, the work is part of the National Gallery of Ireland’s collection. Though Stuart was an American artist, the painting reflects the transatlantic portrait tradition of its time.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter, John Beresford, is shown in formal attire, indicating his status as a member of the British House of Commons. His composed gaze and restrained expression convey the dignified bearing expected of a public figure, while the minimal background keeps attention on his identity and rank.

Technique & Style

Stuart employs smooth, controlled brushwork to model the face, emphasizing the play of light across the forehead and cheekbones. The dark coat, white cravat, and gold‑buttoned details are rendered with subtle tonal variations, creating a modest chiaroscuro that highlights the sitter without overt dramatization.

History & Provenance

Created in 1796, the portrait entered the National Gallery of Ireland at an unspecified date and now resides in its permanent holdings. The painting exemplifies Stuart’s career as a portraitist who worked for both American and European patrons during the post‑Revolutionary period.

Artist & collection

Artist

Gilbert Stuart

Gilbert Stuart (né Stewart; December 3, 1755 – July 9, 1828) was an American painter born in the Rhode Island Colony who is widely considered one of America's foremost portraitists.