Who painted Roger Casement (1864-1916), Patriot and Revolutionary?

Roger Casement (1864-1916), Patriot and Revolutionary was painted by Sarah Purser in 1898.

Where can I see Roger Casement (1864-1916), Patriot and Revolutionary?

Roger Casement (1864-1916), Patriot and Revolutionary is held by National Gallery of Ireland.

Artwork

Roger Casement (1864-1916), Patriot and Revolutionary

Roger Casement (1864-1916), Patriot and Revolutionary is an oil painting by Sarah Purser. It dates from 1898 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland.

About this work

Overview

Sarah Purser’s oil portrait of Roger Casement, executed circa 1898, presents the Irish activist at a pivotal moment in his career. The work is a conventional portrait, measuring roughly the size of a standard easel canvas, and is part of the National Gallery of Ireland’s collection.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter, Roger Casement, is shown as a determined nationalist and humanitarian who had recently gained prominence for his investigations into human rights abuses. The painting captures his resolute expression, reflecting both his political convictions and his emerging reputation as a champion of oppressed peoples.

Technique & Style

Purser employs a restrained palette and careful modeling to render Casement’s features with clarity. The brushwork is smooth, emphasizing the likeness over decorative flourish, while subtle chiaroscuro gives the figure a three‑dimensional presence within a neutral background.

History & Provenance

Created during the late 1890s, the portrait entered the National Gallery of Ireland’s holdings in the early twentieth century, where it remains on view. Its acquisition reflects the institution’s commitment to documenting key figures in Irish political and cultural history.

Context

At the time of its execution, Purser was already distinguished as a leading portraitist and had become the first woman elected a full member of the Royal Hibernian Academy. Her choice of Casement underscores the growing public interest in his humanitarian work and the broader Irish nationalist movement of the period.