Johan Zoffany RA

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Society Observed

Edited by Martin Postle

View Inside Format: Cloth
Price: $75.00
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The 18th-century painter Johan Zoffany (1733–1810) was an astute observer of the many social circles in which he functioned as an artist over the course of his long career. This catalogue investigates his sharp wit, shrewd political appraisal, and perceptive social commentary (including subtle allusions to illicit relationships)—all achieved while presenting his subjects as delightful and sophisticated members of polite society. 

A skilled networker, Zoffany established himself at the court of George III and Queen Charlotte soon after his arrival in England from his native Germany. At the same time, he befriended the leading actor David Garrick and through him became the foremost portrayer of Georgian theater. His brilliant effects and deft style were well suited to theatricality of all sorts, enabling him to secure patronage in England and on the continent. Following a prolonged visit to Italy he travelled to India, where he quickly became a popular and established member within the circle of Warren Hastings, the governor-general. Zoffany's Indian paintings are among his most spectacular and allowed him to return to England enriched and warmly welcomed. This volume provides a sparkling overview of his finest works.



Published for the Yale Center for British Art and the Royal Academy


Exhibition Schedule:

Yale Center for British Art
(10/27/11-02/12/12)

Royal Academy
(03/10/12-06/10/12)

Martin Postle is assistant director for academic activities at the Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art. He was formerly a curator at Tate Britain.

EXHIBITION SCHEDULE

Yale Center for British Art
(10/27/11-02/12/12)


Royal Academy
(03/10/12-06/10/12)

“….this is a volume to enjoy first and foremost as a visual feast.”—Andrew Green, Classical Music

“…the be-all and end-all of a book…weaving his life into his art and both into the several societies in which he moved.”—Brian Sewell, Evening Standard

"[Johan Zoffany: Society Observed] opened my eyes to the complexities of an artist that I had rather taken for granted."—Mary Beard, Times Literary Supplement, 30th November 2012

Shortlisted for the William M. B. Berger Prize for British History, as given by the Berger Collection Educational Trust and The British Art Journal
ISBN: 9780300176049
Publication Date: December 6, 2011
Publishing Partner: Published for the Yale Center for British Art and the Royal Academy
320 pages, 9 1/2 x 11 1/2
225 color + 5 b/w illus.
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