Hugh Douglas Hamilton
, Irish, 1740-1808
Title
Portrait of William Cusack-Smith, later 2nd Bt (1766-1836)Datec.1800
MediumOil on canvas
Dimensions
127.5 x 101.5 cm
Credit LineBequeathed, Mrs Sarita Catherine Williamine Davies, 1988
Object numberNGI.4554
DescriptionWilliam Cusack-Smith (1766-1836), followed his father into the legal profession and was an MP from 1794. He was a strong supporter of the Act of Union yet advocated Catholic Emancipation. Cusack-Smith was appointed Solicitor-General in 1800 and Baron of the Exchequer in 1801. There is much abrasion and loss of definition to the paint surface on the suit and background drapery. However, recent conservation work, which removed discoloured varnish and old repairs, has given the painting a fresher appearance.