James Shaw, Self-Portrait, Oil Painting

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James Shaw
James Shaw, Self-Portrait, Oil Painting
c. 1770

About the Item

This mid-18th-century oil painting by James Shaw (1736-aft.1787) depicts the artist with a palette and brush. It formerly hung at The Wodehouse, a grade II listed country manor house in Staffordshire. Lavishly attired in a decadent fur-trimmed red velvet coat, he turns with a tender expression that exudes quiet confidence. He’s a gentleman artist, glowing with the prestige of an Italian tour - modestly discussing the Roman Campagna, the delights of Venice and the Florentine masterpieces. He painted for love. L’amor che move il sol e l’altre stelle. In 1769, the newly-formed Royal Academy opened its doors to eager students and James Shaw was one of the first. His character and appearance suited the Academy environment and his previous tutor, Edward Penny, would’ve fought his case. For painters, the rules were predominantly formulaic and based upon Sir Joshua Reynolds’ discourses. Students under twenty were forbidden from painting female nudes unless married - and everyone was urged to study the Old Masters. Shaw’s first experience of a Reynolds’ discourse was on December 11, 1769, when the President instructed students to admire but not copy. "Instead of copying the touches of those great masters, copy only their conceptions. Instead of treading in their footsteps, endeavour only to keep the same road. Labour to invent on their general principles and way of thinking. Possess yourself with their spirit. Consider with yourself how a Michael Angelo or a Raffaelle would have treated this subject: and work yourself into a belief that your picture is to be seen and criticised by them when completed. Even an attempt of this kind will rouse your powers." Here, in this portrait from around the same time, Shaw echoes those sentiments. Capturing his own image in soft chiaroscuro. His fingers poised on the brush, somewhat proud of his artistic status, his eyes wide, in search of enlightenment. The portrait previously hung within the splendid environs of The Wodehouse, which dates to the 13th century. Shaw’s brother, the Reverend Thomas Shaw-Hellier, inherited the property and it’s likely that James stayed there when away from his London residence. Held in a remarkable gilt frame with foliate, circa 1870. Established in 2017, Brave Fine Art is a premier English art dealership based in Cheltenham with clients including national galleries and country estates. Our team includes a conservator, logistics specialist and art historian. Over 1,000 paintings have been transported to the US and Canada safely with hundreds of glowing reviews. We set our prices fairly from the start as we prefer to sell quickly and continually evolve the collection. Around 40 new discoveries are added every month. If you have any questions at all, we’d love to hear from you.

Creator:
James Shaw (1736 - 1787, English)
Creation Year:
c. 1770
Dimensions:
Height: 32 in (81.28 cm)Width: 26 in (66.04 cm)
Medium:
Oil,Canvas
Movement & Style:
English School
Period:
Late 18th Century
Condition:
Artwork presents well. Fine craquelure but the paint is stable. Frame with some light wear.
Gallery Location:
Cheltenham, GB
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU2328211975812