The artwork, titled “Henry Pelham,” was crafted by John Singleton Copley around the year 1760. This oil on canvas piece, measuring approximately 42.55 x 34.93 cm, is a striking example of the Neoclassicism movement. It is a portrait genre painting currently housed in a private collection.
The artwork depicts a contemplative young boy, bathed in warm, soft lighting. The boy’s hand rests on his forehead, as if deep in thought or perhaps fatigued, while his eyes focus intently on an open book before him. The realistic rendering of textures and light, particularly the interplay of shadows and highlights on the boy’s face and hand, showcase Copley’s exceptional skill in portraiture. The dark, subdued background contrasts with the illuminated face and book, drawing the viewer’s eye to the subject’s introspective expression. The painting communicates a sense of quiet concentration and earnestness, reflective of the Neoclassical interest in human character and emotion.
