This splendid mid-18th-century oil painting by British artist John Astley (1724-1787) depicts Martha Hatchett (nee Owen) (1713-1792), the second daughter of Thomas Owen of Llynlloed, Montgomeryshire. It was probably commissioned for her new home, Tedsmore Hall in West Felton, Shropshire and it’s presented in a feinged oval. Astley was a significant Georgian portraitist who developed a reputation for fine wine, women, and ostentatious behaviour.
Martha Hatchett, seen here circa 1768, was the wife of Richard Bulkeley Hatchett (1720-1800), who was responsible for building the core of the Tedsmore property. Her elegant attire is typical of that favoured by aristocratic women of the period and includes a pearl choker and sleeves with various flounces. It’s a sensitive portrayal, capturing a softness behind the eyes - a genteel persona.
Born in Wem, Shropshire to Richard Astley, a surgeon, and Margaret Astley, John Astley’s turbulent life resembles a melodramatic novel. Numerous biographers, including close friends, have described his antics with varying degrees of disapproval and mirth, and, needless to say, it’s challenging to uncover the real artist without wading through layers of society tittle-tattle.
Read his story in the artists' directory.
He’s represented in numerous public collections including the National Portrait Gallery, Yale Library, and Manchester Art Gallery.
Held in a later frame.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 30½” x 36” / 78cm x 92cm
Year of creation: c. 1768
Labels & Inscriptions: Inscribed with details regarding the sitter on the reverse.
Provenance: Presumably with Richard Bulkeley Hatchett and Martha Hatchett at Tedsmore Hall, Shropshire (1768) and thence by descent / Sotheby’s / Private collection, UK.
Condition: Cleaned. Canvas relined. Later stretcher. Craquelure in areas. The paint layer is stable. Frame in excellent condition.
Artist’s auction maximum: £12,500 for ‘Portrait Of A Lady, Bust-Length, In An Elaborate Red Dress’, Oil on canvas, Christie’s, British Pictures, London, 16 June 2005 (lot 233).
Our reference: BRV1996
