“Martin Howard,” painted by John Singleton Copley in 1767, is an oil on canvas portrait representative of the Neoclassicism art movement. The artwork, measuring 100.97 x 102.87 cm, currently resides in the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid, Spain.
The artwork depicts a distinguished gentleman, seated and dressed in luxurious attire that suggests affluence and prominence. The subject wears a voluminous red robe with brown undergarments, cinched at the waist with a black sash. His white hair, possibly a wig, frames his face, adding to his dignified appearance. The background is dark and muted, offering a strong contrast that highlights the figure’s presence. To the right, a few books lay partially visible, hinting at the subject’s intellect or scholarly pursuits. The detailed rendering of textures and fabrics exemplifies Copley’s mastery in capturing both physical likeness and the subtle nuances of his subject’s character.
