Louis-Philippe-Joseph, Duke of Orleans 'Philippe Egalité' (1747-1793) (after Sir Joshua Reynolds)

Samuel Drummond, 1785

MEDIUMOil on panel
LOCATIONNational Trust

This portrait captures Philippe Egalité, a key figure in the French Revolution, in a direct and unvarnished way. It's a fascinating glimpse into a man whose life would end tragically, here rendered with a compelling intensity.

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ABOUT THIS WORK

In this intimate portrait, Louis-Philippe-Joseph, Duke of Orleans, known as Philippe Egalité, gazes out with a direct, almost challenging expression. The painting, an oil on panel, captures a man at the cusp of immense historical change, dressed in what appears to be contemporary attire rather than grand ceremonial robes. His powdered wig and the subtle sheen on his fabric suggest a person of status, yet the overall impression is one of approachable intensity. This work, created in 1785, is a copy after a renowned portrait by Sir Joshua Reynolds, a common practice at the time for disseminating images of important figures. Samuel Drummond, who painted this version, was a British artist who began his career as a sailor before training at the Royal Academy Schools, eventually exhibiting hundreds of portraits.

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What to Notice

1

His direct gaze, almost looking past you.

2

The subtle texture and sheen of his dark coat.

3

The delicate lace at his cravat and cuffs.

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Audio Deep Dive

This portrait captures Philippe Egalité, a key figure in the French Revolution, in a direct and unvarnished way. It's a fascinating glimpse into a man whose li…

Hear the full story in the app
THE ARTIST
Samuel Drummond 1766–1844 · England

Samuel Drummond, a British painter, captured the likenesses of notable figures like Walter Scott and documented maritime history with grand oil paintings.

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