Richard Boyle, 2nd Viscount Shannon

Sitterback to top

• Richard Boyle, 2nd Viscount Shannon (1674-1740), Soldier. Sitter in 2 portraits.

Artistback to top

• Sir Godfrey Kneller, Bt (1646-1723), Portrait painter. Artist associated with 1666 portraits, Sitter associated with 30 portraits.

This portraitback to top

This unfinished Kit-Cat Club portrait provides a rare insight into the working methods of the early eighteenth century's leading portraitist. First the canvas was nailed onto its stretcher and primed with a standard grey-green 'ground'. Kneller then painted in the face, probably while the sitter was present. After sketching a few details to indicate wig, pose and hand, Kneller passed the canvas to his team of assistants who each specialised in one aspect of the composition from costume, to props and backgrounds.

Related worksback to top

• NPG D33119: Richard Boyle, 2nd Viscount Shannon (source portrait)

Linked publicationsback to top

• Ingamells, John, Later Stuart Portraits 1685-1714, 2009, p. 250
• Ingamells, John, Later Stuart Portraits 1685-1714, 2009, p. 250
• Saywell, David; Simon, Jacob, Complete Illustrated Catalogue, 2004, p. 558

Portrait setback to top

• The Kit-cat Club portraits: paintings by Sir Godfrey Kneller, circa 1697-1721

Subject/Themeback to top

• Beningbrough Hall