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Joseph Wright of Derby (1734-97), a celebrated artist renowned for capturing the spirit of the Industrial Revolution, is the subject of a significant auction event. What is believed to be his final self-portrait, dating to 1793/94, is set to be sold at Sloane Street Auctions in London on May 2, 2024. The 25 x 20 inch oil on canvas, expected to fetch up to £80,000, is thought to be the last of Wright’s self-portraits remaining in private hands. This work offers a rare glimpse into the artist’s introspective later years, showcasing his technical mastery and emotional depth.
Wright of Derby is widely regarded as one of the most important British painters of the 18th century. His works often explored themes of science, industry, and enlightenment, earning him patrons such as Josiah Wedgwood and William Arkwright, key figures in Britain’s industrial transformation. Notable paintings like An Experiment on a Bird with an Air Pump (1768) and An Iron Forge (1772) are housed in prestigious institutions like the National Gallery and Tate Britain, respectively. Alongside his industrial and scientific subjects, Wright was also a prolific portraitist, creating a series of self-portraits that chronicled his life and artistic evolution.
This final self-portrait, painted when Wright was 59, is a poignant reflection of his maturity and wisdom. Unlike his earlier, more youthful depictions, this work reveals a man who has experienced life’s triumphs and challenges. Daniel Hunt, owner of Sloane Street Auctions, describes the painting as a testament to Wright’s “virtuoso technique” and his ability to convey a sense of thoughtfulness and grace. The portrait captures Wright’s introspective nature, offering a glimpse into the mind of an artist who had achieved great success and recognition.
The provenance of the painting adds to its historical significance. It was originally owned by John Holland of Ford Hall, Derbyshire (1734-1807), and remained within his extended family until 1946, when it was sold at auction in Canada. It then entered a private collection in Toronto before being acquired by a collector in Guernsey around 1980. The painting’s journey through time and across continents underscores its enduring appeal and importance.
The self-portrait has been documented in several key publications, including The Life and Works of Joseph Wright A.R.A. by Wm. Bemrose (1885), where it appears as a frontispiece, and Benedict Nicholson’s Joseph Wright of Derby: Painter of Light (1968). These references highlight the painting’s significance within Wright’s oeuvre and its role in understanding his artistic legacy.
Daniel Hunt emphasizes the historical and cultural value of the work, describing it as a “museum-grade” piece that reflects a pivotal period in British history. The Industrial Revolution, which Wright so vividly captured in his art, transformed the nation’s economy and society, and this self-portrait serves as a personal testament to that era. Hunt also notes the changing landscape of the auction world, with Sloane Street Auctions stepping into the role once played by Christie’s South Kensington in offering high-quality works to a broader audience.
The sale of this self-portrait is a significant event for art collectors and historians alike. It not only provides an opportunity to acquire a rare and important work by one of Britain’s most influential artists but also offers a window into the life and mind of Joseph Wright of Derby. As the last of his self-portraits in private hands, it represents a unique chance to own a piece of art history.
In summary, Joseph Wright of Derby’s final self-portrait is a masterful and introspective work that captures the essence of the artist in his later years. Its historical significance, combined with its provenance and documented history, makes it a highly desirable piece for collectors and institutions. The upcoming auction at Sloane Street Auctions is a testament to the enduring legacy of Wright’s art and the continued interest in his contributions to British painting.
