Queen Adelaide (1792-1849)

Martin Archer Shee's state portrait of Queen Adelaide was painted in 1836, depicting the wife of William IV whose modest and pious character contrasted sharply with the scandalous reputation of Queen Caroline, wife of George IV. Adelaide was widely admired for her charitable work and her devotion to her elderly husband. Shee presented her with regal dignity appropriate to a queen consort, in robes of state with the emblems of monarchy. The portrait serves a conventional commemorative function but documents the particular style of mid-Regency royal portraiture that Shee developed as President of the Royal Academy.

Shee's portrait presents the queen with appropriate regal dignity in a competent academic style. The careful rendering of the royal attire and jewels demonstrates the professional precision expected of an Academy president.