Richard Boyle, 3rd Earl of Burlington and 4th Earl of Cork; Lady Jane Boyle

Sittersback to top

• Lady Jane Boyle (died 1780), Sister of 3rd Earl of Burlington. Sitter in 5 portraits.
• Richard Boyle, 3rd Earl of Burlington and 4th Earl of Cork (1694-1753), Patron of the arts. Sitter in 10 portraits.

Artistback to top

• Sir Godfrey Kneller, Bt (1646-1723), Portrait painter. Artist associated with 1666 portraits, Sitter associated with 30 portraits.

This portraitback to top

Burlington was the greatest promoter of the neo-classical 'Palladian' style in architecture and garden design. Admirers of the Italian Palladian saw England as the true heir to the glories of classical Rome. This portrait shows Burlington aged about six and is, therefore, somewhat prophetic. Adopting a long-standing tradition of painting children in 'Roman' costume, Kneller has shown Burlington in ancient sandals, classical drapery and with a commanding gesture that sets him apart from his more naturalistically depicted sister, Jane.

Related worksback to top

• NPG D11554: Richard Boyle, 3rd Earl of Burlington and 4th Earl of Cork; Lady Jane Boyle (based on same portrait)
• NPG D32425: Richard Boyle, 3rd Earl of Burlington and 4th Earl of Cork; Lady Jane Boyle (based on same portrait)
• NPG D32424: Richard Boyle, 3rd Earl of Burlington and 4th Earl of Cork; Lady Jane Boyle (based on same portrait)
• NPG D33446: Richard Boyle, 3rd Earl of Burlington and 4th Earl of Cork; Lady Jane Boyle (based on same portrait)

Linked publicationsback to top

• Kerslake, John, Early Georgian Portraits, 1977, p. 28
• Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 90

Subjects & Themesback to top

• Beningbrough Hall
• Carpets and textiles
• Children
• Pets and animals