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John Gray of Carntyne

John Gray of Carntyne

Artist (Edinburgh, Scotland, 1756 - 1823)
Sitter (Carntyne, Scotland, 1800 - 1867)
Date1813
Mediumoil on canvas
ClassificationsPaintings And Drawings
DimensionsOverall: Height: 126.4 cm, Width: 100 cm
Frame: Height: 159 cm, Width: 132 cm
Weight: 41 kg
AcquisitionPresented in 1988 by the Museums & Galleries Commission.
CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0
LocationOn Display - Gallery 18
Object numberABDAG008116
About MeThis portrait of John Gray of Carntyne (1800-1867) as a thirteen-year-old boy dates from Raeburn's finest period. A low set landscape background with a stormy sky gives the picture a romantic dimension.

In this striking work, Raeburn has perfectly captured the sitter's lively appearance and compelling eyes. The contrast between his child-like face and almost regal, adult stance suggests that he is pausing before making the step from childhood to manhood.

Gray was born in Glasgow the son of a merchant, and educated at (but did not graduate from) the University of Glasgow. He became an advocate in 1825 and then vicar of Bolsover and Scarcliffe in Derbyshire in 1836. He graduated BA from Oxford in 1844.

Art Chat is an engaging series of short audio and video interpretations offering young people’s perspectives of artworks and objects in our collection. Alongside the image of this object you can now watch the interpretation of Raeburn's work by learners from Aberdeen Grammar School.
More About Me
Raeburn has perfectly captured the sitter's lively appearance and compelling eyes. The contrast between his child-like face and almost regal, adult stance suggests that he is pausing before making the step from childhood to manhood.
Exhibitions