Portrait known as John Foulston (1772-1841) of Plymouth, seeking artist attribution and date

called John Foulston (1772-1841)

called John Foulston (1772-1841)

Paul Holden, Visiting Research Fellow at Plymouth University, has submitted the following query for members’ consideration:

‘This half-length portrait is said to be a likeness of the architect John Foulston (1772-1841). This attribution is based on oral history and supported by the detail ‘JF’ marked on the architectural plan the sitter is holding. The details of the building shown on the plan cannot be determined. The painting has been relined and cleaned. There is no signature or markings of any kind on the stretcher or frame.

A pupil of Thomas Hardwick, Foulston initially worked in London but won commissions in Plymouth from 1811. He became the leading architect in Plymouth and worked in various styles around the city and the surrounding area (some in partnership with George Wightwick) until his death.

I would be very interested in any thoughts on the artist or date of the painting. Judging by the age of the sitter, if indeed it is Foulston, the date would seem to be between 1815 and 1820. If not Foulston himself it could be a patron. A likeness of the architect was published in his book ‘The Public Buildings Erected in the West of England, as Designed by J Foulston, FRIBA’ (1838) (see left). Any thoughts or comments welcome.’

Please use the Comments area below to respond to this query.

called John Foulston (1772-1841)

called John Foulston (1772-1841)

detail from the portrait identified as John Foulston (1772-1841)

detail from the portrait identified as John Foulston (1772-1841)

Leave a Comment

Your email is never published nor shared. Required fields are marked *

Queries & Reviews

Submit your portrait query for other members, or post an illustrated case study, review, or research paper.