Artwork
Portrait of Constantine Phipps
Portrait of Constantine Phipps is an unspecified portrait miniature by the Rococo painting artist John Smart. It dates from 1770 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This portrait miniature depicts Constantine Phipps, a British gentleman, at the age of 24.
About this work
This one was made the year after the man’s father died, so it might have been a keepsake for his family.
This is a small, careful portrait of a young man in a dark coat and white cravat. His powdered hair is tied back, and his face looks calm and serious.
John Smart painted miniatures—tiny, detailed portraits meant to be carried like photos. This one was made the year after the man’s father died, so it might have been a keepsake for his family. The soft light on his face makes him look real, not stiff like some portraits from this time.
If you like this, look up other works about england, 18th century.
Overview
This portrait miniature depicts Constantine Phipps, a British gentleman, at the age of 24. Painted by John Smart in 1770, it is a small, intricately detailed work mounted in an elaborately carved gold frame on a bracelet.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait shows Phipps with a calm expression, wearing a green coat, white waistcoat embroidered with gold, and a high white stock collar. His attire and demeanor convey a sense of self-assurance and possibly humor.
Technique & Style
Smart's style is evident in the plain olive-gray background, Phipps's colorful clothing, and his expressive eyes and slightly upturned mouth. The small format and attention to detail are characteristic of Smart's early work.
History & Provenance
Phipps was the second son of a landowner who lived in England and France. The portrait was painted the year after his father's death and before his marriage. Later, Phipps moved his family to France, but was unable to return due to escalating conflict between France and England.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Smart (1 May 1741 – 1 May 1811) was an English painter who specialised in portrait miniatures. He was a contemporary of Richard Cosway, George Engleheart, William Wood and Richard Crosse.
