Artwork
Self-Portrait in Fancy Dress
Self-Portrait in Fancy Dress is an oil painting by Thomas Bridgford. It dates from 1855 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Ireland.
About this work
Overview
Thomas Bridgford's 'Self-Portrait in Fancy Dress' is an oil painting created around 1855. It is part of the National Gallery of Ireland's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting shows Bridgford dressed in historical attire, wearing a dark hat adorned with a red feather, a brown coat with red trim, and a white collar, set against a dark brown background. The costume suggests an earlier era, but the specific period and Bridgford's intentions are unclear.
Technique & Style
The use of chiaroscuro, a technique that utilizes strong contrasts between light and dark, is evident in the painting. Bridgford's application of this technique contributes to the overall visual effect of the portrait.
History & Provenance
Bridgford, a British-born artist who became a Royal Hibernian Academician, began exhibiting his work at age fifteen. He primarily worked as a portrait painter in London and Dublin, and this self-portrait is part of his practice in producing portraits across various genres.
Artist & collection
Artist
Thomas Bridgford RHA, Royal Hibernian Academician, was a British artist, in London and Manchester, England.
Selbstporträt
Study for a portrait of a man
Portrait of a Young Man in a Hat
Portrait of a Man, formerly Known as Sir Richard Robinson, Archibishop of Armagh (1709-1794)
Portrait of a Painter (presumably C. L. Agricola, 1667-1719)
Selbstporträt
Jean-Claude Richard, abbé of Saint-Non
Portrait of a man
Head of a Young Man Wearing a Hat
Self-portrait
Portrait of Rembrandt