An illustrated talk by artist Cally Trench about the portrait of Lord Shelburne, one of the UK’s least-known Prime Ministers, by Sir Joshua Reynolds, one of the most famous British portrait painters of the 18th century.

Lord Shelburne (1737-1805) had a local connection, having lived at Loakes Manor (now Wycombe Abbey School) and being at one time Baron Wycombe. He was briefly Prime Minister (July 1782- March 1783), and his greatest achievement was in helping to negotiate the terms of the Peace of Paris, which ended the American War of Independence. The treaty was signed on 3rd September 1783 – exactly 240 years to the day of this talk. He was the UK’s first Irish-born Prime Minster.

Sir Joshua Reynolds (1723-1792) was a popular and prolific portrait painter, who was famous for introducing the ‘grand manner’ of continental painting to British portraiture. He is also noted for his experimentation with materials. Reynolds was the first President of the Royal Academy of Arts. He painted Lord Shellburne’s portrait at least three times. The Museum’s portrait is a relatively late one, painted when Reynolds was 63 and Lord Shelburne was 49.

This talk will  take you on a journey through the lives and work of both men.

The portrait can be seen in Wycombe Museum’s Art Gallery.

This talk is free to attend. Please consider making a donation if you are able to do so.

Suggested donation £5 per person.