Artwork

Portrait of Oliver Cromwell (1599-1658), Lord Protector

Portrait of Oliver Cromwell (1599-1658), Lord Protector, by Samuel Cooper, oil, 1650
Portrait of Oliver Cromwell (1599-1658), Lord Protector, by Samuel Cooper, oil, 1650

Portrait of Oliver Cromwell (1599-1658), Lord Protector is an oil painting by Samuel Cooper. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland.

About this work

If you're interested in learning more about the artist behind this piece, you might want to look up Samuel Cooper.

This portrait depicts a man with dark, shoulder-length hair and a serious expression. He wears a dark jacket over a white collared shirt.

The man's attire suggests a formal or professional setting, possibly from the 17th century. The artist's use of oil paint creates a sense of depth and texture in the subject's clothing.

If you're interested in learning more about the artist behind this piece, you might want to look up Samuel Cooper.

Overview

This oil painting is a portrait of Oliver Cromwell, Lord Protector of England, created by Samuel Cooper, a renowned English portraitist.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is depicted with dark, shoulder-length hair and a serious expression, wearing formal attire consisting of a dark jacket and white collared shirt, suggesting a professional or official setting.

Technique & Style

The use of oil paint achieves a sense of depth and texture, particularly in the rendering of the subject's clothing, showcasing Cooper's skill as a portraitist.

History & Provenance

Painted around 1650, the portrait is now held in the National Gallery of Ireland, indicating its significance as a historical representation of a major figure.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Samuel Cooper

Artist

Samuel Cooper

Samuel Cooper (1609 – 5 May 1672), sometimes spelt Samuel Cowper, was an English miniature painter. He was the younger brother of Alexander Cooper.