Head Study of a Preacher

c. 1670

Francis Le Piper

Associated Names
Francis Le Piper

Artist, British, 1640 - 1698

The image shows an upper-body portrait of a man seated and leaning slightly forward, resting his arms on a surface in front of him. His facial features are distinct with a somewhat round face, broad nose, and pronounced brow. The man's expression appears focused, with his eyes directed forward. His hair is somewhat tousled and extends to his neck, peeking out from under a cap. He wears a traditional jacket and collar typical of historical attire, with visible folds and texture suggesting thickness and warmth. His hands are clasped, with an open book resting between them. The background of the image is subdued, with vague outlines suggesting the presence of other figures or people in silhouette, but with minimal detail.

Media Options

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Artwork overview


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Hugh Howard of Shelton [1675 - 1737]; bequeathed to his brother Robert Howard, Bishop of Elphin [1670 - 1740]; Ralph Howard, 1st Viscount Wicklow [1726 - 1786]; by descent to Eleanor, Countess of Wicklow [1915 - 1997]; (her sale, Christie's, London, 24 March 1987, part of no. 4); Colin Hunter; (his sale, Sotheby's, London, 11 July 1991, no. 8, unsold). (sale, Bellmans Sussex, 22-24 January 2014, no. 402); Private collection; (Lowell Libson & Jonny Yarker Ltd., London); gift to NGA, 2018.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

2018

  • The Spirit & Force of Art: Drawing in Britain 1600 - 1750, Lowell Libson and Johnny Yarker, Ltd., London, 2018, no.17.

2023

  • Drawing in Britain, 1700 - 1900: New Additions to the Collection, National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC, 2023.


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