Student Artwork Guide
Copyright This work is in the public domain. Samuel Hawksett died in 1859; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it ended in 1929.
In context
Robert Langtry (d.1859) — Samuel Hawksett
The original measures 132 × 101 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.
Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 58 at death.
Painted when the artist was 42. The artist lived to 58. 3 of the 7 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.
Shaded: the lifetime of Samuel Hawksett (1801–1859) ▲ this work, 1843 every dated painting, decade by decade
Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.
More works to set beside this one: originaluniqueart.com/en/art/similar/samuel-hawksett-robert-langtry-d-1859-AS829K-en/
Measured from the image
Main colour
Black #0d0f0a
Catalogued palette
These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour
The ten leading countries
Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.
Together these works take 100.0% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 7 works by this artist, of which 3 were looked at at least once. This painting has not been looked at yet in that time — it closes the list without a rank. The same counts, month by month
Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.
About this artwork
Robert Langtry (d.1859) — Samuel Hawksett
The Ulster Museum (Ireland) is home to a stunning oil on canvas painting, Robert Langtry (d.1859), created by the skilled artist Samuel Hawksett in 1843. This artwork is a testament to the artist's attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of his subject. Measuring 132 x 101 cm, the painting is a significant piece in the museum's collection.
Samuel Hawksett was a talented artist known for his portraits, which often featured prominent figures of his time. Robert Langtry (d.1859) is one such example, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing the subtleties of human expression. The painting is characterized by its use of bold colors and intricate details, making it a standout piece in the Ulster Museum (Ireland).
The painting features Robert Langtry dressed in formal attire, standing next to a chair, with a cane in hand. The subject's facial expression is one of quiet confidence, inviting the viewer to ponder his thoughts. The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and dimensionality, drawing the viewer's eye to the subject.
Some notable works by Samuel Hawksett include:
Portrait of a Young Man
David McTear (1756–1840)
Robert Langtry (d.1859) by Samuel Hawksett is a remarkable painting that showcases the artist's skill and attention to detail. As a handmade oil painting reproduction available on AllPaintingsStore.com, art enthusiasts can now own a piece of history. For more information on the artist and his works, visit Samuel Hawksett's page on AllPaintingsStore.com.
Artist and museum
Samuel Hawksett, born in Lichfield, Staffordshire, England, was a prolific portrait painter active during the Victorian era, leaving behind a notable collection of canvases that capture the spirit of his time. While biographical details remain somewhat sparse—records indicate he died in 1859—his artistic output speaks volumes about his skill and dedication to documenting prominent figures within British society. Hawksett’s work primarily focused on commissioned portraits, reflecting the social conventions of the period where commissioning artwork was a symbol of status and prestige.
Early Life & Training: Precise information regarding Hawksett's formative years is elusive. However, he apprenticed under William Birch, a respected Lichfield artist known for his landscapes and portraits, establishing a foundation in classical artistic principles.
Notable Commissions & Subjects: Hawksett gained recognition for his meticulous depictions of individuals from diverse professions—scholars, clergymen, businessmen—and nobility. Among his most celebrated commissions were portraits of Thomas Corbett, a barrister and Member of Parliament, and Robert Langtry, a theatrical performer who achieved fame as Lord Lansdowne’s mistress.
Technique & Style: Hawksett employed a refined technique characterized by careful observation and meticulous detail. His portraits often utilized chiaroscuro—the dramatic interplay of light and shadow—to convey depth and emotion, reflecting the influence of Rembrandt and Caravaggio. He skillfully rendered fabrics and textures with remarkable accuracy, demonstrating an understanding of anatomy and perspective.
Influence & Legacy: Hawksett’s artistic legacy resides in his contribution to Lichfield Guildhall Art and Dr Johnson's House Art collections. His portraits serve as invaluable records of Victorian social life and offer insights into the personalities and aspirations of influential figures. Although overshadowed by more flamboyant contemporaries, Hawksett remains a testament to the enduring power of classical portraiture and its ability to preserve visual representations of history.
Hawksett’s paintings found their home in prestigious institutions like Lichfield Guildhall and Dr Johnson's House, showcasing his artistic prowess alongside other celebrated artists of the era. These collections provide invaluable context for understanding Hawksett’s work within a broader cultural landscape—a testament to Lichfield’s commitment to preserving artistic heritage. The Guildhall houses an impressive assemblage of paintings reflecting various artistic movements, while Dr Johnson's House celebrates the literary achievements of Samuel Johnson and his contemporaries. Examining these artworks alongside Hawksett’s portraits illuminates the interconnectedness of art and intellectual life during Victorian England.
Despite limited biographical documentation, Hawksett achieved considerable acclaim for his artistic skill and dedication to portraying prominent individuals. His meticulous attention to detail and masterful use of chiaroscuro established him as a respected portraitist within Lichfield’s artistic community. Furthermore, the inclusion of his canvases in notable art collections—Lichfield Guildhall and Dr Johnson's House—solidified his place in British art history. Hawksett’s enduring legacy lies not only in his individual artworks but also in their contribution to documenting a pivotal period in Victorian culture.
For deeper exploration of Samuel Hawksett’s life and artistic endeavors, consult Art UK () for comprehensive biographical information and detailed analyses of his oeuvre. WahooArt.com () offers valuable insights into his artistic style and showcases reproductions of his paintings.
originaluniqueart.com/en/art/download/samuel-hawksett-robert-langtry-d-1859-AS829K-en/
Look closely
Robert Langtry (d.1859) — Samuel Hawksett
Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.
Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.
When "Robert Langtry (d.1859)" was created in 1843, Samuel Hawksett - born in 1801 - was 42 years old.
"Robert Langtry (d.1859)" by Samuel Hawksett is recorded with a subtle color saturation.
A green to violet spectrum hue runs through "Robert Langtry (d.1859)" by Samuel Hawksett.