Hugh Douglas Hamilton
, Irish, 1740-1808
Title
Emily (Emilia Mary) FitzGerald (née Lennox), Duchess of Leinster (1731-1814), Mother of 2nd DukeDatec.1793
MediumPastel and graphite on paper
Dimensions
24.1 x 20 cm
Credit LineTransferred, National Library of Ireland, 1967
Object numberNGI.6088
DescriptionFollowing Hamilton's return to Dublin from Rome in 1792, his enthusiasm for the pastel medium dwindled. This portrait of Emily (1731-1814) was certainly among his last. It depicts the Dowager Duchess, by then in her 60s, in a looser, more painterly style than that of his earlier pastels. As the wife of the 1st Duke of Leinster, Emily was a much respected political hostess. She is also largely credited with the improvements that took place at their homes, Carton at Maynooth and Leinster House in Dublin. ProvenanceTransferred, National Library of Ireland, 1957 Exhibition HistoryIrish Portraits 1660-1860, National Gallery of Ireland, Dublin, 14 August - 14 October 1969; National Portrait Gallery, London, 30 October 1969 - 4 January 1970; Ulster Museum, Belfast, 28 January - 9 March 1970