Artwork

Portrait of John Ford Paterson

Portrait of John Ford Paterson, by John Longstaff, oil, 1898
Portrait of John Ford Paterson, by John Longstaff, oil, 1898

Portrait of John Ford Paterson is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist John Longstaff. It dates from 1898 and is held in the collection of the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

About this work

Overview

The Portrait of John Ford Paterson is an oil painting created by Australian artist John Longstaff in 1898. It is part of the Art Gallery of New South Wales collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts John Ford Paterson, a figure from high society, with a mustache, wearing a hat and dark jacket against a dark background. The use of partial lighting creates depth and dimensionality.

Technique & Style

Longstaff employed chiaroscuro, using shadows to add depth to the subject's features. The dark background and attire contrast with the partially lit face, creating a sense of volume.

History & Provenance

John Longstaff, a five-time Archibald Prize winner, was known for his portraits of prominent Edwardian-era figures. This work is a representation of his skill in capturing the likenesses of high society individuals.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Longstaff

Artist

John Longstaff

Sir John Campbell Longstaff (10 March 1861 – 1 October 1941) was an Australian painter, war artist and a five-time winner of the Archibald Prize for portraiture.