Amelia Ramsay

Maker Allan Ramsay (Scottish, 1713-1784, active in England)

ClassificationsDRAWINGS

Date1776

Mediumred and white chalks on laid paper prepared with pink ground

Dimensions11 5/8 x 8 1/2 in. (29.5 x 21.6 cm.)

InscribedInscribed on verso: Amelia Ramsay drawn by her Father in the Island of Ischia/ August 1776

Credit LineThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Sir Bruce Ingram Collection

Status

Not on view

Label TextIn 1776, Ramsay traveled to the Italian island of Ischia in hopes that its famed curative waters would ease the pain of a recent fall that had forced the artist to retire from his fashionable portrait practice. Despite his injury, the chalk drawings Ramsay made of his family during this visit are skillfully drawn, sensitive portrayals. In this portrait of his eldest daughter, the artist has rendered her features in a straightforward way, with delicate strokes of red chalk lightly touched with white. The drawing also displays a perceptive understanding of her character. Amelia was famed among her father’s circle for her vivacity, and he has emphasized this liveliness in the wide-open eyes, curving lips, and tilt of her head (2022).

Object number63.52.200

Terms

Exhibitions

Friends and Family: British Artists Depict their Circle