William Wollaston about 1759
Oil on canvas
Ipswich Borough Council
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William Wollaston
Wollaston was a landowner and MP who lived at Finborough Hall, in Ipswich. Gainsborough's portrait, however, presents him in a private, informal moment, rather than as a public figure. He seems momentarily distracted while playing his flute, in an attitude of graceful, casual ease. In a society which laid great emphasis on personal deportment, Gainsborough's ability to emphasise gentility through the skilful depiction of relaxed body-language was especially valuable. |
