Sir Joseph Banks (1743–1820), 1st Bt, GCB, PRS

Phillips's portrait of Sir Joseph Banks from around 1814 depicts one of the most consequential figures in the history of British science—the naturalist who had sailed with Cook on the Endeavour voyage, discovered Botany Bay, served as President of the Royal Society for forty-two years, and become the dominant force in British natural history and scientific patronage. By 1814 Banks was seventy-one, partially paralyzed by gout, but still actively directing the Royal Society and maintaining his extraordinary correspondence network. Phillips's portrait served the documentation of a figure whose influence on British science had been without parallel for over four decades.

The portrait renders Banks with dignified authority, the aging features treated with respectful naturalism. Phillips's smooth technique and warm palette create an image of intellectual distinction and personal gravitas.