Who painted Portrait of a painter?

Portrait of a painter was painted by John Hamilton Mortimer in 1770.

Where can I see Portrait of a painter?

Portrait of a painter is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Portrait of a painter?

Portrait of a painter is associated with Rococo painting.

Artwork

Portrait of a painter

John Hamilton Mortimer , 1770

Portrait of a painter is a watercolor work on paper by the Rococo painting artist John Hamilton Mortimer. It dates from 1770 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. The work is a circular watercolour executed in 1770, portraying a seated male figure within an interior space.

About this work

Overview

The work is a circular watercolour executed in 1770, portraying a seated male figure within an interior space. He wears dark attire with a striped vest, rests his head on his hand, and gazes pensively. Behind him an easel holds a small sketch, while a mirror occupies the wall and a miniature drawing is affixed nearby, creating a compact, self‑contained scene.

Subject & Meaning

The figure appears to be a painter, suggested by the presence of an easel and sketch materials, and the composition’s focus on artistic contemplation. The thoughtful pose and surrounding objects imply a moment of reflection on the creative process, possibly serving as a visual self‑portrait that emphasizes the artist’s identity and practice.

Technique & Style

Rendered in watercolour, the piece employs the medium’s capacity for swift, fluid marks typical of 18th‑century sketching. The circular format and limited palette accentuate the intimate atmosphere, while the handling of light on the mirror and fabrics demonstrates a careful observation of texture within a brief, expressive execution.

History & Provenance

Created in 1770, the work bears a label indicating the sitter is likely the artist himself, a common practice for self‑portraiture in this period. The piece is now part of the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum, where it is displayed among other examples of British watercolour practice from the late eighteenth century.

Artist & collection

Artist

John Hamilton Mortimer

John Hamilton Mortimer (17 September 1740 – 4 February 1779) was a British figure and landscape painter and printmaker, known for romantic paintings set in Italy, works depicting conversations, and works drawn in the…