
Johan Zoffany RA
Society Observed
Martin Postle(Author)
Yale University Press
Published on 14. October 2011
Book
Hardback
320 pages
978-0-300-17604-9 (ISBN)
Description
The 18th-century painter Johan Zoffany (1733-1810) was an astute observer of the many social circles in which he functioned as an artist over the course of his long career. This catalogue investigates his sharp wit, shrewd political appraisal, and perceptive social commentary (including subtle allusions to illicit relationships)-all achieved while presenting his subjects as delightful and sophisticated members of polite society.
A skilled networker, Zoffany established himself at the court of George III and Queen Charlotte soon after his arrival in England from his native Germany. At the same time, he befriended the leading actor David Garrick and through him became the foremost portrayer of Georgian theater. His brilliant effects and deft style were well suited to theatricality of all sorts, enabling him to secure patronage in England and on the continent. Following a prolonged visit to Italy he travelled to India, where he quickly became a popular and established member within the circle of Warren Hastings, the governor-general. Zoffany's Indian paintings are among his most spectacular and allowed him to return to England enriched and warmly welcomed. This volume provides a sparkling overview of his finest works.
Published for the Yale Center for British Art and the Royal Academy
Exhibition Schedule:
Yale Center for British Art
(10/27/11-02/12/12)
Royal Academy
(03/10/12-06/10/12)
A skilled networker, Zoffany established himself at the court of George III and Queen Charlotte soon after his arrival in England from his native Germany. At the same time, he befriended the leading actor David Garrick and through him became the foremost portrayer of Georgian theater. His brilliant effects and deft style were well suited to theatricality of all sorts, enabling him to secure patronage in England and on the continent. Following a prolonged visit to Italy he travelled to India, where he quickly became a popular and established member within the circle of Warren Hastings, the governor-general. Zoffany's Indian paintings are among his most spectacular and allowed him to return to England enriched and warmly welcomed. This volume provides a sparkling overview of his finest works.
Published for the Yale Center for British Art and the Royal Academy
Exhibition Schedule:
Yale Center for British Art
(10/27/11-02/12/12)
Royal Academy
(03/10/12-06/10/12)
Reviews / Votes
Shortlisted for the William M. B. Berger Prize for British History, as given by the Berger Collection Educational Trust and The British Art Journal -- William M. B. Berger Prize * Berger Collection Educational Trust and The British Art Journal *More details
Language
English
Place of publication
United States
Product notice
Cloth over boards
Illustrations
225 color + 5 b-w illus.
Dimensions
Height: 292 mm
Width: 241 mm
Weight
2064 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-300-17604-9 (9780300176049)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Person
Martin Postle is assistant director for academic activities at the Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art. He was formerly a curator at Tate Britain.