The artwork, titled “Thomas William Anson, 1st Earl of Lichfield when Viscount Anson” and created by artist Charles Turner in 1823, belongs to the Romanticism art movement and is categorized as a portrait. This piece, rich in historical essence, encapsulates the noble bearing and dignified disposition of its subject, capturing the quintessential elegance of early 19th-century portraiture.
In the artwork, Thomas William Anson is depicted seated in a formal pose, holding a document in his hands, suggestive of his status and responsibilities. His attire is indicative of the fashion of the period, with a double-breasted coat buttoned up. The setting is richly decorated, featuring classical architectural elements, such as columns adorned with ornate capitals, and a visible bust sculpture in the background, reflecting a reverence for classical antiquity. The desk beside him is cluttered with books, papers, and an inkstand, hinting at his intellectual pursuits and administrative duties. The delicate interplay of light and shadow in the engraving accentuates the depth and gravitas of the character, embodying the Romanticism movement’s emphasis on individualism and the grandeur of its subjects.
