Sir Robert Liston, 1742 - 1836. Diplomat
About this artwork
Wilkie painted the diplomat Sir Robert Liston (1742-1836) in London. He set the half-length figure against the backdrop of a heavy purple brown curtain shot through with dark red which powerfully complements the grey-haired head. Experience and age are reflected in the vigorous face of Liston, who had returned to Britain from the Hague to prepare for his final posting to Constantinople. The distinguished diplomat spoke ten languages fluently and had held senior appointments in Madrid, Stockholm and Washington.
Updated before 2020
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artist:Sir David Wilkie (1785 - 1841) Scottish
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title:Sir Robert Liston, 1742 - 1836. Diplomat
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date created:1811
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materials:Oil on panel
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measurements:30.48 x 25.40 cm; Framed: 47.20 x 42.20 cm
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object type:
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credit line:Purchased 1937
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accession number:PG 1313
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gallery:
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depicted:
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subject:
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artwork photographed by:Antonia Reeve
Sir David Wilkie
Sir David Wilkie
Wilkie achieved international recognition for his highly original paintings of events and episodes from contemporary life. His skills as a narrator were evident in the facial expressions and poses of his characters, and in the informative detail he included. He was born in Fife, the son of a rural...