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, Irish, 1865-1941
Title
Sir Frederic William Burton (1816-1900), Artist and Director of the National Gallery, London
Datec.1900
MediumMarble
Dimensions
18.7 cm
Credit LinePurchased, 1902
Object numberNGI.8134
Label TextBurton was an Irish painter of subject pictures and portraits who worked solely in watercolour. His interest in ancient Ireland is apparent in many of his paintings, which include exquisite antiquarian details. He abandoned painting in 1874 when he was appointed Director of the National Gallery, London. This marble portrait was carved after a life mask that was taken when Burton was in middle age. There is a marked contrast between Burton’s firm and animate face and the slackened features of the deceased individuals captured in the accompanying death masks.