Samuel Richardson

1 portrait

Samuel Richardson

by Mason Chamberlin
oil on copper, 1754 or before
9 3/4 in. x 7 3/4 in. (249 mm x 197 mm)
Given by Louis S. Auchincloss through the American Friends of the National Portrait Gallery, 1998
Primary Collection
NPG 6435

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Sitterback to top

Samuel Richardson (1689-1761), Novelist. Sitter associated with 9 portraits.

Artistback to top

Mason Chamberlin (1722-1787), Portrait painter. Artist associated with 10 portraits, Sitter in 4 portraits.

This portraitback to top

Painted for Richardson's friend, Arthur Onslow, Speaker of the House of Commons. The portrait was described as a 'speaking likeness' by Thomas Edwards, another friend and shows Richardson in a characteristic pose, writing 'upon a little board . . . held in his hand'. In the background is a bust of Milton whose works Richardson much admired.