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Samuel William Reynolds (1773-1835)
[George III] 1820
RCIN 604484
Samuel William Reynolds (1773-1835)
[George III] 1820


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Mezzotint of George III as king. Three quarter length without hair, and with beard, and ermine edged robe. Seated, with head resting in right hand and with left placed on chair. With English inscription below, including publisher's note, 'Engraved by S.W. Reynolds, and pubd. by His Majesty's most gracious permission Feby. 24, 1820.' Later state with alterations made to face, hair, and beard. For earlier proofs see RCIN 604480, RCIN 604481, and RCIN 604482. For another impression see RCIN 604483.
Accurate likenesses of George III were almost non-existent during the last years of his life, when he was withdrawn from public view. Here S.W. Reynolds elaborated upon a sketch of the king made by the sculptor Matthew Wyatt when he was working at Windsor. The proof states show the monarch with a wild, Lear-like appearance. The Prince Regent was approached for approval to publish and, on the third proof, alterations probably requested by the prince are marked in pencil. The published state shows these adjustments carried out, making the king more dignified in appearance.Provenance
Acquired by George IV.
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(mezzotinter)(dedicatee)Acquirer(s)
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