Horatio Nelson

Sitterback to top

• Horatio Nelson, Viscount Nelson (1758-1805), Vice-Admiral and victor of Trafalgar. Sitter associated with 84 portraits.

Artistsback to top

• L. Acquarone (active 1799-1802). Artist associated with 1 portrait.
• Leonardo Guzzardi (active 1799). Artist associated with 2 portraits.

This portraitback to top

In this portrait Nelson celebrates his triumph at the Battle of the Nile (1798). The image is unusual as it frankly depicts the toll of warfare. His face is drawn and emaciated while his cocked hat is angled to avoid contact with the wound over his right eye. The original 1799 portrait, on which this later copy was based, was commissioned either by the connoisseur Sir William Hamilton or by Nelson himself. Several contemporary copies were made, including one for Grand Sultan Selim III of Constantinople who sent Nelson many magnificent gifts after his victory, signalling his growing international reputation.

Linked publicationsback to top

• Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 455
• Walker, Richard, Regency Portraits, 1985, p. 360

Subjects & Themesback to top

• Hats and head-attire
• Regency War Heroes and Military Martyrs