Portrait of Thomas Moore (1779-1852), Poet

Thomas Moore was the most popular Irish poet of the Regency period, whose Irish Melodies — songs set to traditional Irish tunes — made him a celebrity throughout the English-speaking world. His friendship with Byron and Sheridan placed him at the center of Whig literary society. Shee's 1817 portrait presents Moore with the charm and sociability that made him a sought-after dinner guest, capturing the poetic celebrity whose personal magnetism reinforced the appeal of his verse. Moore later became the authorized biographer of Byron, destroying the poet's memoirs in a controversial act that generations of scholars have lamented.

Shee's portrait of his fellow Irishman captures Moore's celebrated charm and wit with sympathetic warmth. The elegant composition and warm palette create an appealing image of the poet's engaging personality.