Jr Smith - Self-portrait Hunter - Drawing XVIII

John Raphael SMITH (Derby 1752 - Doncaster 1812)
Self-portrait as a hunter with his dog (1785)
Black chalk, stump and red chalk on grey prepared paper
39 x 26 cm (sheet) - 67 x 51.5 cm (frame)
Light scratches
Annotated on the reverse “Morland L1.10.0”

Provenance:
- Chez Spink, London, circa 1985
- English private collection
- Stephen Ongpin and Guy Peppiatt, One hundred drawings and watercolours dating from the 16th century to the present day, 2012, n°27a, pp. 29
- Christie's, 2020, Facetime: People in Art through the Ages, lot n°3 (Estimated 3000-5000 euros)

Self-portrait as a hunter by the English engraver and pastellist John Raphaël Smith, created during an incredible adventure during the Duke of Richmond's hunting parties. Comparable to two self-portraits currently held at the British Museum, made on papers prepared like this one. A witty work with splendid material effects between black and red chalk. Also the stump to sketch a misty landscape that testifies the influence of Gainsborough. Very good provenance and state of preservation fleur de coin.

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Do not hesitate to contact me for more information or photos. The drawing is currently visible on my stand at the Saint-Ouen flea market.