Edward Cotsford (1740-1810) MP for Midhurst

Location

Country: Sweden
City: Stockholm
Place: British Embassy

MP Edward Cotsford wears a scarlet jacket and bright yellow waistcoat. This is one of numerous portraits painted by Nathaniel Dace-Holland, which show the sitter in similar clothing. The garments may have been owned by the artist himself, for the purpose of sumptuously attiring his sitters.

Nathaniel Dance-Holland was born in London, the son of architect George Dance the elder. He trained under Francis Hayman and, from 1854, lived in Rome, forming a partnership with Pompeo Batoni. His most prestigious commission was a portrait of Edward, Duke of York (1764) for George III. He returned to London in 1766 and established himself as a portraitist, becoming a founder member of the Royal Academy. In 1783 he married Harriet Drummer of Cranbury Park, Hampshire. He resigned from the Academy in 1790, but continued to exhibit. He was elected MP for East Grinstead, Sussex (1790-1802; 1807-11), and Great Bedwyn, Wiltshire (1802-06). In 1800 he took the name Holland and was created a baronet. He died at his Wiltshire home, aged 76.

People

Edward Cotsford (1740 - 1810)

Places

Subjects

male portrait, man, 18th century costume, coat, waistcoat, wig, cravat, staff, Member of Parliament

Materials & Techniques

canvas, oil, oil painting

Artist

Nathaniel Dance-Holland (1735 - 1811)

Title

Edward Cotsford (1740-1810) MP for Midhurst

Date

c.1781-1782

Medium

oil on canvas

Dimensions

height: 125.00 cm, width: 98.50 cm

Acquisition

Presented by Agnew's, March 1953

Provenance

With Agnew’s Gallery, London; from whom purchased in March 1953

GAC number

2093