Cosmo George, 3rd Duke of Gordon

Artist John Alexander (Aberdeen, Scotland, 1686 - c.1766)

Date1740

Mediumoil on canvas

ClassificationsPaintings And Drawings

DimensionsOverall: Height: 80.3 cm, Width: 52.3 cm
Frame: Height: 89.3 cm, Width: 61.6 cm

AcquisitionPurchased in 1954.

CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0

LocationOn Display - Gallery 18

Object numberABDAG004525

Keywords

About MeAlexander painted many portraits for the Gordon family, but he also aspired to be a history painter. He studied in Italy between 1710 and 1720 and on his return, he decorated the staircase and ceiling at Gordon Castle for the Marquis of Huntly, the future 2nd Duke of Gordon.

The young Duke is shown against the background of Huntly Castle. The attempt to integrate the figure into the landscape is not entirely successful.

Alexander was the great-grandson of portrait painter George Jamesone. Alexander's son, Cosmo, was also a painter.

More About Me

Collections Wall

The Gordons had Jacobite sympathies and it is interesting to note that the artist himself supported Bonnie Prince Charlie in the '45 rising and temporarily became a fugitive after Culloden!

Exhibitions

Gallery 18 - People & Portraits