Portrait of George, 5th Duke of Marlborough, with Blenheim in the Distance

Richard Cosway|George Spencer-Churchill, 5th Duke of Marlborough [Marquess of Blandford]

1817–21 · Graphite and watercolor · Drawings and Prints

The British miniaturist Cosway used graphite to create this small full-length portrait, adding watercolor to define the face. George, 5th Duke of Marlborough wears historical fancy dress consisting of a short brocaded jacket with slashed sleeves, tight hose, short boots, a cloak, plumed hat and sword. Blenheim Palace is glimpsed in the background with emphasis placed on the Column of Victory, a monument completed in 1730 and topped with a statue of John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough.

Artist

Richard Cosway|George Spencer-Churchill, 5th Duke of Marlborough [Marquess of Blandford]

Date

1817–21

Medium

Graphite and watercolor

Department

Drawings and Prints

Credit line

Bequest of Brooke Russell Astor, 2007