The artwork titled “John Bours,” created by the esteemed artist John Singleton Copley in 1763, is a remarkable example of Neoclassicism. Rendered in oil on canvas, this portrait measures 65.4 x 76.2 cm, epitomizing the artistic style and cultural values of its time.
The artwork portrays a refined gentleman, John Bours, seated in a contemplative pose. Clad in a brown suit adorned with white ruffles, Bours exudes an air of sophistication and calm introspection. His relaxed posture, with one hand thoughtfully supporting his head and the other holding a book, suggests his engagement in intellectual pursuits. The subtle background, featuring a serene landscape with cloudy skies, enhances the overall dignified mood of the portrait. The artist’s meticulous attention to detail and masterful use of light and shadow beautifully capture the texture of the fabrics and the subject’s contemplative expression, making it a distinguished piece within the portrait genre of the Neoclassical movement.
