Artwork

Arthur Hill-Trevor (1798–1862), 3rd Viscount Dungannon

Arthur Hill-Trevor (1798–1862), 3rd Viscount Dungannon, by Stephen Catterson Smith the younger, oil, 1856
Arthur Hill-Trevor (1798–1862), 3rd Viscount Dungannon, by Stephen Catterson Smith the younger, oil, 1856

Arthur Hill-Trevor (1798–1862), 3rd Viscount Dungannon is an oil painting by the Realist artist Stephen Catterson Smith the younger. It dates from 1856 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This oil portrait, created in 1856 by Stephen Catterson Smith, is a depiction of Arthur Hill-Trevor, 3rd Viscount Dungannon (1798–1862).

About this work

Overview

This oil portrait, created in 1856 by Stephen Catterson Smith, is a depiction of Arthur Hill-Trevor, 3rd Viscount Dungannon (1798–1862). The work is part of the collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Arthur Hill-Trevor, is portrayed in attire suggestive of his noble title, conveying a sense of dignity and importance. Notably, his face is obscured by a piece of paper, introducing an element of intrigue or possibly indicating a posthumous portrait.

Technique & Style

The painting features rich, vibrant colors, with the subject's black and red robe set against a dramatic orange and brown sky, and a dark, muted landscape. The juxtaposition of these visual elements adds depth and complexity to the composition.

History & Provenance

Created in 1856, the portrait is attributed to Stephen Catterson Smith. It is currently housed at the Victoria and Albert Museum, though the full provenance history prior to its acquisition is not detailed here.

Context

While specific contextual details about the commission or the artist's relationship with the subject are not provided, the work reflects 19th-century portrait conventions with its emphasis on conveying the sitter's status.

Legacy

The legacy of this portrait is tied to its preservation within the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection, contributing to the historical record of British nobility in the 19th century. Information on the artist, Stephen Catterson Smith, can be consulted for broader context on his body of work.

Artist & collection