William Godwin

Sitterback to top

• William Godwin (1756-1836), Philosopher and novelist. Sitter in 13 portraits.

Artistback to top

• James Northcote (1746-1831), Painter; pupil and biographer of Sir Joshua Reynolds. Artist associated with 103 portraits, Sitter associated with 23 portraits.

This portraitback to top

Godwin liked Northcote's portrait, describing it as 'The principal memorandum of my corporal existence that will remain after my death.' With the light hitting the philosopher's temples, Northcote symbolised Godwin's belief in progress based on reason.

Related worksback to top

• NPG D20131: William Godwin (source portrait)
• NPG D8415: William Godwin (source portrait)
• NPG D8414: William Godwin (source portrait)
• NPG D8387: William Godwin (after)

Linked publicationsback to top

• Holmes, Richard, Insights: The Romantic Poets and Their Circle, 2005, p. 34
• Holmes, Richard; Crane, David; Woof, Robert; Hebron, Stephen, Romantics and Revolutionaries: Regency portraits from the National Portrait Gallery, 2002, p. 49
• Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 251
• Walker, Richard, Regency Portraits, 1985, p. 219
• Woof, Robert; Hebron, Stephen, Romantic Icons, 1999, p. 37

Subject/Themeback to top

• In profile