Who painted Samuel Crompton (c.1720–1782)?

Samuel Crompton (c.1720–1782) was painted by Joseph Wright of Derby in 1790.

Where can I see Samuel Crompton (c.1720–1782)?

Samuel Crompton (c.1720–1782) is held by Derby Museum and Art Gallery.

What movement is Samuel Crompton (c.1720–1782)?

Samuel Crompton (c.1720–1782) is associated with Rococo painting.

Artwork

Samuel Crompton (c.1720–1782)

Joseph Wright of Derby , 1790

Samuel Crompton (c.1720–1782) is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Joseph Wright of Derby. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the Derby Museum and Art Gallery. This oil painting is a portrait of Samuel Crompton, an inventor known for developing the spinning mule.

About this work

The painting depicts a man with white hair, dressed in a red coat and white shirt, holding papers in his hands.

The painting depicts a man with white hair, dressed in a red coat and white shirt, holding papers in his hands. The background is dark, with a subtle light source coming from the right side of the image.

The man's attire and hairstyle suggest a formal portrait from the 18th century. The papers he holds may indicate his profession or interests.

To learn more about the artist's use of light and shadow, explore the technique of chiaroscuro.

Overview

This oil painting is a portrait of Samuel Crompton, an inventor known for developing the spinning mule. Created by Joseph Wright of Derby in 1790, it is part of the Derby Museum and Art Gallery collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Crompton with white hair, wearing a red coat and white shirt, holding papers that may relate to his work. His formal attire and hairstyle are characteristic of 18th-century portraiture.

Technique & Style

The painting features a dramatic use of chiaroscuro, with a strong contrast between light and shadow. A subtle light source from the right side illuminates the subject against a dark background, creating a sense of depth.

Artist & collection

Artist

Joseph Wright of Derby

Joseph Wright (3 September 1734 – 29 August 1797), styled Joseph Wright of Derby, was an English painter who specialised in portrait painting and landscape art.