Portrait of Robert Darcy, 4th Earl of Holderness
George Knapton, 1751–1753

Portrait of Robert Darcy whose family had important historical links with Temple Newsam. Robert Darcy (1718-78), 4th Earl of Holderness, was a direct descendant of Thomas, Lord Darcy, the original builder of Temple Newsam (c 1500), who was beheaded for treason in 1537. Holderness was ambassador to Venice (1744-6) and The Hague (1749-51) and was Secretary of State almost continuously between 1751 and 1761. He had many critics but was described by the Duke of Newcastle as 'universally loved and esteemed ... diligent and exact in all his proceedings'. He was an enthusiastic director of opera and masquerades, and a patron of the poet William Mason.
More information
Title of artwork, date
Portrait of Robert Darcy, 4th Earl of Holderness, 1751–1753
Date supported
2000
Medium and material
Oil on canvas
Dimensions
119 x 137 cm
Grant
25000
Total cost
50040

Get a National Art Pass and explore Temple Newsam House
You'll see more art and your membership will help museums across the UK
National Art Pass offers available at Temple Newsam House
Art Funded by you FAQs
Contact us
If you have a question about a work of art in our archive, please contact the Programmes team. We’ll be happy to answer your enquiry.