Artwork
David Garrick
David Garrick is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Pompeo Batoni. It dates from 1764 and is held in the collection of the Ashmolean Museum.
About this work
Overview
Pompeo Batoni's 1764 oil painting portrays British actor David Garrick, created during Garrick's Italian visit from 1763 to 1765.
Subject & Meaning
Garrick is depicted with a book of Terence's Comedies, symbolizing his connection to classical theatre. The subject's attire and expression reflect his theatrical persona.
Technique & Style
Batoni, renowned for capturing British Grand Tourists, employed his characteristic portrait style, requiring twelve lengthy sittings with Garrick to achieve the work.
History & Provenance
Commissioned by Garrick for Richard Kaye in exchange for an ancient gem, the painting later moved from the Bodleian Library to the Ashmolean Museum in Oxford in 1845.
Context
Produced in Rome, the painting exemplifies the artistic exchanges between British visitors and Italian artists during the Grand Tour era.
Artist & collection
Artist
Pompeo Girolamo Batoni (25 January 1708 – 4 February 1787) was an Italian painter who displayed a solid technical knowledge in his portrait work and in his numerous allegorical and mythological pictures.
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