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James Maitland, 8th Earl of Lauderdale, 1759 - 1839. Statesman
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James Maitland, 8th Earl of Lauderdale, 1759 - 1839. Statesman 1803

On Display PORTRAIT GALLERY

  • Scottish Art
Following his visit to Paris in 1792, James Maitland became an impassioned supporter of the French Revolution. On his return to Britain, he became the leader of Whig opposition in Scotland. He founded the 'Friends of the People' and was alleged to have appeared in 'the rough costume of Jacobinism' in the House of Lords. This marble bust suggests the lively mind and deep convictions of the man known as 'Citizen Maitland'. Much later in life, he made a political u-turn and became a no less impassioned Tory.

Glossary Open

Bust

Sculpted portrait consisting of the head and the top of the shoulders.

French Revolution

A series of events that took place in 1791 leading to the end of the 'ancien régime', a complex political and social structure ruled over by an absolute monarch. Prompted by economic crisis and widespread food shortages, the Revolution resulted in the abolition of feudal rights and privileges, the reorganisation of the church, and a constitution that limited the powers of the monarch. These reforms provide the basis for the modern French state.

Jacobite

Jacobitism was a movement to restore the descendants of the Stuart King James VII and II to the British throne. The first claimant, Prince James Francis Edward (known as 'the Old Pretender') was exiled first in France, then Italy, from where he planned unsuccessful attempts to claim the throne. His son Prince Charles Edward (known as 'Bonnie Prince Charlie' or 'the Young Pretender') famously invaded Britain in 1745, but after some military successes was finally defeated at Culloden in 1746.

Bust, French Revolution , Jacobite

Details

  • Acc. No. PG 1364
  • Medium Marble
  • Size Height: 54.50 cm
  • Credit Purchased 1938

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Part of

Scottish Art

Located In See floorplan

Portrait Second floor
  • Scottish National Portrait Gallery / Second floor / Gallery 7