Artwork
Portrait of Thomas Hudson
Portrait of Thomas Hudson is a drawing by Jonathan Richardson. It dates from 1715 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This red chalk drawing on blue paper, created by Jonathan Richardson, portrays Thomas Hudson, who later became Richardson's son-in-law. The work is characterized by its close-up composition, emphasizing Hudson's facial features.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Thomas Hudson, is depicted with a serene, introspective expression. His facial characteristics, including large dark eyes, a straight nose, and slightly open mouth, are rendered with attention to detail, while his wavy hair is suggested through loose, quick lines.
Technique & Style
Richardson employed light, expressive pencil strokes in red chalk on blue paper, resulting in a soft, unfinished quality around the edges. The focus on capturing the shape and expression of the face reflects a portrait technique prioritizing intimacy and likeness.
History & Provenance
Notably, this drawing bears a strong compositional resemblance to a later Richardson work in the British Museum, suggesting it may have served as a preparatory study. Hudson's marriage to Richardson's daughter Mary in 1725 contextualizes the drawing within the artist's personal circle.
Context
The yellowed appearance of the paper indicates the drawing's age. It is currently part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, where similar sketches can be viewed.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jonathan Richardson (12 January 1667 – 28 May 1745), sometimes called "the Elder" to distinguish him from his son, was an English artist, collector of drawings and writer on art, working almost entirely as a portrait-painter in London.
