The artwork is titled “William Cavendish, Marquess of Hartington, Later 4th Duke of Devonshire,” created by the artist William Hogarth in the year 1741. It is an oil painting on canvas and measures 63.5 by 76 centimeters. This Rococo style portrait is held at the Yale Center for British Art, located at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, United States.
The artwork depicts William Cavendish, the Marquess of Hartington, who later became the 4th Duke of Devonshire. The subject is portrayed in a regal, slightly diagonal posture, exuding a sense of grace and authority characteristic of the Rococo period. The background is dark, emphasizing the subject’s elegantly ornate costume adorned with intricate gold brocade, which contrasts with the more muted colors of his attire. His composed expression and dignified stance reflect the status and distinction of his noble lineage. The fine brushwork and attention to detail are evident in the rendering of the textures and patterns, showcasing Hogarth’s skill as a portrait artist.
