Thomas Clarkson

Sitterback to top

• Thomas Clarkson (1760-1846), Slavery abolitionist. Sitter in 11 portraits.

Artistback to top

• Carl Frederik von Breda (1759-1818). Artist associated with 12 portraits.

This portraitback to top

The philanthropist , Thomas Clarkson, was a member of the committee formed in 1787 for the suppression of the slave trade. In this portrait, Clarkson is depicted inscribing with a quill the title-page of his Essay on the Impolicy of the African Slave Trade which was published in May 1788. The portrait was painted during von Breda's visit to London; its silvery-grey tones are typical of his work and earned him the soubriquet 'the Swedish Van Dyck' .

Linked publicationsback to top

• Audio Guide
• Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 128
• Walker, Richard, Regency Portraits, 1985, p. 113

Subject/Themeback to top

• Writing