Francis Cotes, ‘Paul Sandby’, 1761, oil on canvas

Francis Cotes (1726-1770)

This portrait exemplifies the more romantic image of the artist that emerged in the later eighteenth century. In tune with the new ideas of’sensibility’� which stressed an emotional sensitivity to nature — the landscape painter Paul Sandby is shown in a relaxed attitude, sketching a view beyond the open window.

Sandby ‘s enraptured gaze and the fact that he is looking out of the window emphasises his emotional involvement with the scene he is drawing. A more traditional portrait would show the painter self – consciously presenting himself to the viewer.

(From the display caption November 2003)