The artwork, titled “Moses Gill,” was created by the distinguished artist John Singleton Copley in the year 1764. Executed in the medium of oil on canvas, this portrait is indicative of the Neoclassical art movement. The dimensions of the painting are 100.33 x 126.36 cm. The artwork is currently housed in the Rhode Island School of Design Museum (RISD Museum) in Providence, Rhode Island, United States.
The artwork presents an exquisitely detailed portrait of Moses Gill. The subject is depicted with an air of dignified confidence, leaning slightly, with one hand placed on his hip and the other resting on a surface. Attired in period-appropriate clothing, comprising a dark blue coat with a lustrous taupe waistcoat and white ruffled shirt, the figure exudes a sense of sophistication and formality. The background is subtly shaded, accentuating the subject’s prominence. The soft light falling on his face and attire illuminates the textures and folds of the fabric, showcasing Copley’s masterful technique. This portrait exemplifies the elegance and precision typical of Neoclassical portraiture, capturing both the physical likeness and the distinguished character of its subject.
