Sir Joshua Reynolds, P.R.A. (Plympton, Devon 1723-1792 London)

Since the reign of Henry VIII, the family of Connock resided in Treworgey Manor in the parish of St. Cleer. The family was of considerable distinction and wealth in Cornwall and throughout the years, several of the Connocks served as members of parliament, justices of the peace and sheriffs of Cornwall. The sitter in the present portrait is Mary, wife of Nicholas Connock, who was the last of the male line. He died in 1757 and bequeathed the family seat, Treworgey, to his wife, who survived her husband for over 40 years.

This fine portrait is a rediscovered, rare early work by Reynolds. Having shown an early interest in art, Reynolds was apprenticed in 1740 to the fashionable London portrait painter Thomas Hudson, who had been born in Devon. He spent 1749-52 abroad, mainly in Italy, and set up practice in London shortly after his return. He soon established himself as the leading portrait painter. When the Royal Academy was founded in 1768, Reynolds was elected its first President.

We are grateful to David Mannings for confirming the attribution, on the basis of photographs.