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James Wolfe

2 of 7 portraits by Joseph Wilton

© National Portrait Gallery, London

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James Wolfe

after Joseph Wilton
bronze bust, early 20th century, based on a work of circa 1760
29 3/4 in. (756 mm) high
Given by Sir (Robert) Leicester Harmsworth, 1st Bt, 1928
Primary Collection
NPG 2225

Sitterback to top

  • James Wolfe (1727-1759), General; conqueror of Quebec. Sitter associated with 26 portraits.

Artistback to top

  • Joseph Wilton (1722-1803), Sculptor. Artist or producer associated with 7 portraits, Sitter in 9 portraits.

This portraitback to top

General James Wolfe was killed leading the attack that seized Quebec from the French in 1759. In designing this posthumous bust, Wilton allegedly rushed to Portsmouth to have Wolfe's newly-landed coffin opened so he could sketch his face. Wilton found it 'too much distorted', and had to rely on association to create an idealised portrait of a hero: the classical tunic and armour of an ancient Roman soldier and, more specifically, the wolf motifs on the shoulders - a pun on the General's name. More detailed information on this portrait is available in a National Portrait Gallery collection catalogue, John Kerslake's Early Georgian Portraits (1977, out of print).

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Events of 1760back to top

Current affairs

Death of George II on 25 October at the age of 76. George III succeeds to the throne at the age of 22.

Art and science

German artist Johan Zoffany arrives in England, where he is instrumental in reviving the 'conversation piece' genre of painting.
First public exhibition of paintings in England is held at the Society of Arts' Great Room in the Strand, London.
The Public Ledger is founded; the oldest British periodical with continuous daily publication.


International

Seven Years' War: At the Battle of Carrickfergus in Ireland, a force of French troops captures the town of Carrickfergus before retiring.
Surrender of Montreal to the British under General Jeffrey Amherst signals the virtual loss of Canada by the French. British troops oust the Nawab of Bengal Mir Jafar and replace him with Mir Quasim.
Former Chief Tacky leads an unsuccessful slave rebellion in Jamaica, which aims to overthrow British rule.

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