This charming mid-19th-century pastel by Maltese artist George Bonavia (1818-1901) depicts a young British officer in uniform.
Upstanding with his right hand resting on his hip, he carries a confident expression. He appears to be wearing the ‘undress uniform’ of the grenadier guards and his gold-laced cap bears the iconic grenade badge. The portrait was completed in 1856, the final year of the Crimean War.
Bonavia was familiar with the army. His grandfather, Matteo, was the first Maltese officer of the Royal Engineers and his brother, Emanuel, was a Brigade Surgeon for the Indian Medical Service. George, however, preferred artistic pursuits and exhibited numerous works at the Royal Academy.
The portrait is inscribed ‘NL (after)’ in the lower left along with his signature. This indicates that he based his drawing on another work by an artist with those initials.
Medium: Pastel on paper
Overall size: 18” x 21” / 46cm x 53cm
Year of creation: 1856
Condition: Slight creasing and a minor tear on the right. Frame with some light wear.
George Bonavia was a Maltese artist predominantly known for his portraits and scenes. The National Portrait Gallery holds an example of his work.
Learn more about George Bonavia in our directory.
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