Philip Reinagle

British; English, 1749-1833

John Hind, c. 1780

Oil on canvas

61.2 (ht) x 48.5 (wi) cm

Collection of the Winnipeg Art Gallery

G-63-297

Categories:

Painting, International Art

Studying under Allan Ramsay in London, Philip Reinagle was afforded the opportunity to assist with several important royal portraits, including those of George III (1738–1820) and Queen Charlotte (1744–1818). Exhibiting regularly at the Royal Academy, beginning in 1733 he specialized in portraiture, and was elected an Associate of the Academy in 1787. Inspired by the Dutch landscape painters, who often included animals and hunt scenes in their compositions, Reinagle began producing animal paintings, and in particular those scenes associated with the hunt. As a testament to upper-class recreational activities, gaming portraits held special significance in eighteenth-century British society, highlighting the regal character of the hunt. In this handsome portrait of John Hind and his three hunting dogs, Hind is shown, shotgun in hand, dressed in top hat, black vest and sports coat, breeches, and button-up boot covers.