Art Funded by you

Portrait of William Hayley with his son Thomas, William Meyer, & the Artist

George Romney, 1796

© Abbot Hall Art Gallery, Kendal, Cumbria, UK

The poet William Hayley, wearing grey, is seated at a table with books. His son, holding a statue of Minerva after the antique, stands on his right, with William Meyer beside him in profile. Romney is seen looking over Hayley's left shoulder. William Hayley was Romney's friend and biographer and, to amuse him during a visit, the artist began this picture of the four friends, which was thought one of his best. This painting is also known as 'The Four Friends'.

More information

Title of artwork, date

Portrait of William Hayley with his son Thomas, William Meyer, & the Artist, 1796

Date supported

1967

Medium and material

Oil on canvas

Dimensions

123 x 100 cm

Grant

1500

Total cost

3000

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

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