William Cleaver (1742–1815), DD, Principal (1785–1809), Bishop Successively of Chester, Bangor and St Asaph

John Hoppner's portrait of William Cleaver, Bishop successively of Chester, Bangor, and St Asaph, painted around 1800, documents an important figure in the Church of England's educational establishment. Cleaver had been Principal of Brasenose College, Oxford — where this work now hangs — before his elevation to multiple sees. Hoppner was Reynolds's closest rival in the 1790s, absorbing his predecessor's grand manner while softening it with a warmer, more sentimental handling. This institutional portrait for Brasenose College exemplifies his academic commissions, which formed a steady part of his practice alongside more fashionable society portraiture.

The academic portrait formula — three-quarter length, formal dress, architectural or neutral ground — is handled by Hoppner with his characteristic warmth of flesh tone and ease of composition. The bishop's robes are rendered with decorative care. The handling shows his derivation from Reynolds while displaying a personal lightness of touch.