Artwork

Sir Charles Newton (1816–1894), Keeper of Greek and Roman Antiquities (1861–1885)

Sir Charles Newton (1816–1894), Keeper of Greek and Roman Antiquities (1861–1885) is an oil painting by the British Romanticist artist Henry Wyndham Phillips. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the British Museum. This oil painting portrays Sir Charles Newton, a prominent scholar and Keeper of Greek and Roman Antiquities at the British Museum.

About this work

Overview

This oil painting portrays Sir Charles Newton, a prominent scholar and Keeper of Greek and Roman Antiquities at the British Museum. Created around 1850 by British artist Henry Wyndham Phillips, the work is a representation of Newton before his appointment as Keeper.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Sir Charles Newton, is depicted in a contemplative pose, with his right hand resting on his chin and a serious expression. His gaze is directed slightly to the left, conveying a sense of introspection. The portrayal emphasizes Newton's individual character and presence.

Technique & Style

The painting exhibits a realistic style, characteristic of British Romanticism, with meticulous attention to detail in facial features and attire. Phillips employed chiaroscuro to create depth and dimensionality, enhancing the overall sense of realism.

History & Provenance

Completed circa 1850, the painting is now part of the British Museum's collection, where Newton later served as Keeper of Greek and Roman Antiquities from 1861 to 1885.

Artist & collection

Artist

Henry Wyndham Phillips

Henry Wyndham Phillips (c. 1820 – 8 December 1868) was a British artist and portrait painter. Although he produced and exhibited a small number of paintings of scriptural subjects early on in his career, he spent most…