Hester Lynch Piozzi (née Salusbury; Mrs Thrale)

Sitterback to top

• Hester Lynch Piozzi (née Salusbury; Mrs Thrale) (1741-1821), Writer and friend of Dr Johnson. Sitter in 14 portraits.

Artistback to top

• George Dance (1741-1825), Architect and portrait draughtsman. Artist associated with 322 portraits, Sitter in 7 portraits.

This portraitback to top

Older women tended not to observe every fashion and they are often shown wearing outmoded dress. In this drawing, the famous diarist, Hester Piozzi, is shown in profile, dominated by her wide, 'frizzed' hairstyle which was highly fashionable in the 1780s. It is tied with a simple 'bandeau' ribbon in keeping with the gradual trend towards the Neo-classical at this time. A tiny hat is perched on top of the whole ensemble. In contrast, the simplicity of English dress styles of the period prevails for the rest of her outfit; she wears an 'English dress' or robe à l'anglaise as it was known, made of linen or cotton with a delicate flower pattern. A starched piece of cloth is crossed over her chest to protect her modesty.

Related worksback to top

• NPG D14717: Hester Lynch Piozzi (née Salusbury; Mrs Thrale) (after)

Linked publicationsback to top

• Ingamells, John, National Portrait Gallery: Mid-Georgian Portraits 1760-1790, 2004, p. 381
• Ribeiro, Aileen, The Gallery of Fashion, 2000, p. 144
• Rogers, Malcolm, Master Drawings from the National Portrait Gallery, 1993 (accompanying the exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery from 5 August to 23 October 1994), p. 75
• Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 495
• Uglow, Jenny, Character Sketches: Dr Johnson, His Club and Other Friends, 1998, p. 55

Linked displays and exhibitionsback to top

• Late Eighteenth Century Prints and Drawings (17 April 2004 - 5 September 2004)

Subjects & Themesback to top

• Chairs
• Gloves and gauntlets
• In profile
• Regency Style - Women