Artwork
Elias Ashmole
Elias Ashmole is an oil painting by John Riley. It dates from 1694 and is held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.
About this work
Overview
This oil painting is a portrait of Elias Ashmole, created by John Riley in 1694. It is now part of the Ashmolean Museum's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts Ashmole, a prominent antiquary and collector, in formal attire, conveying a sense of dignity and seriousness. His direct gaze engages the viewer, while his expression remains solemn.
Technique & Style
Riley employed chiaroscuro to create depth and volume, using a strong light source from the side to illuminate Ashmole against a dark background. The artist's use of light and shadow adds drama to the portrait, characteristic of late 17th-century English portraiture.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Riley, or Ryley, (1646 – March 1691) was an English portrait painter. He painted portraits of Charles II and James II, and was court painter to William III and Mary II. One of his pupils was Jonathan Richardson.
John Eldred
Portrait of Katharine Elliot (died 1688), Dresser of Duchess Anne of York and First Woman of the Bedchamber of Queen Mary of Modena, the first and second Wives of James II of England, respectively
Portrait of a Gentleman, possibly Patrick Sarsfield (d.1693)
Porträt des Elias Ashmole (1617-1692)
Elias Ashmole
James, Duke of York, Later King James II
Charles II
