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The Hon. Sir John Cust, 3rd Bt of Pinchbeck and 6th Bt of Humby (1718-1770) in Speaker's Robes by Joshua Reynolds

The Hon. Sir John Cust, 3rd Bt of Pinchbeck and 6th Bt of Humby (1718-1770) in Speaker's Robes

Joshua Reynolds·1767

Historical Context

This painting of The Hon. Sir John Cust, 3rd Bt of Pinchbeck and 6th Bt of Humby (1718-1770) in Speaker's Robes, dating to 1767, is by Sir Joshua Reynolds, who born in Devon in 1723, was the first president of the Royal Academy. He elevated British portraiture through his Grand Manner approach inspired by Italian Old Masters. The work demonstrates the artist's characteristic approach to subject matter during the Romantic period, reflecting both personal artistic vision and the broader cultural context in which it was produced. The painting contributes to our understanding of the artist's development and working methods.

Technical Analysis

The painting demonstrates the artist's mature command of technique, with accomplished handling of color, form, and atmospheric effects that reflect both personal artistic development and the broader stylistic conventions of the Romantic period.

Look Closer

  • ◆Notice the Speaker's Robes: this is an official portrait in formal parliamentary dress, quite different from Reynolds's elegant social portrait manner.
  • ◆Look at the formal dignity the robes impose: the Speaker's costume makes an imposing visual statement independent of Reynolds's compositional choices.
  • ◆Observe the Grand Manner composition Reynolds applies even within the formal portrait tradition — the pose is elevated and classical.
  • ◆Find the parliamentary setting or backdrop that might complement the Speaker's official dress.

See It In Person

National Trust

Various, United Kingdom

Visit museum website →

Quick Facts

Medium
Oil paint
Dimensions
339 × 252 cm
Era
Rococo
Style
English Rococo
Genre
Portrait
Location
National Trust, Various
View on museum website →

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The Honorable Henry Fane (1739–1802) with Inigo Jones and Charles Blair

Joshua Reynolds·1761–66

Lady Sarah Bunbury Sacrificing to the Graces by Joshua Reynolds

Lady Sarah Bunbury Sacrificing to the Graces

Joshua Reynolds·1763–65

Sir Thomas Rumbold, Bt. by Joshua Reynolds

Sir Thomas Rumbold, Bt.

Joshua Reynolds·1788

Thomas (1740–1825) and Martha Neate (1741–after 1795) with His Tutor, Thomas Needham by Joshua Reynolds

Thomas (1740–1825) and Martha Neate (1741–after 1795) with His Tutor, Thomas Needham

Joshua Reynolds·1748

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The Madonna with the Seven Founders of the Servite Order

Agostino Masucci·c. 1728

Theodosius Repulsed from the Church by Saint Ambrose by Alessandro Magnasco

Theodosius Repulsed from the Church by Saint Ambrose

Alessandro Magnasco·c. 1705

Arcadian Landscape with Figures by Alessandro Magnasco

Arcadian Landscape with Figures

Alessandro Magnasco·c. 1700