Sir Walter Scott, 1st Bt

Sitterback to top

• Sir Walter Scott, 1st Bt (1771-1832), Novelist and poet. Sitter associated with 44 portraits.

Artistback to top

• Sir Francis Leggatt Chantrey (1781-1841), Sculptor. Artist associated with 266 portraits, Sitter in 11 portraits.

This portraitback to top

Chantrey's admiration for the famous poet and novelist led him 'to ask him to sit for me … the only time I ever recollect having asked a similar favour of any one'. The original bust was executed in 1820 and given to Scott in 1828 as 'a token of esteem'. Contemporaries considered it a fine, good-humoured likeness and Scott was particularly impressed by Chantrey's use of modern details - like the tartan cape - which updated classical tradition without overstepping the timeless requirements of a portrait in marble.

Linked publicationsback to top

• Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 553
• Walker, Richard, Regency Portraits, 1985, p. 442

Subjects & Themesback to top

• On display at the Gallery
• Sculptures