Captain John Hayes St Leger (1756 - 1799)
Joshua Reynolds combined several modern and antique sources to convey the appeal and drama of the soldier and rake, Captain John St Leger, known as 'handsome Jack'. In Ferdinand de Rothschild's time, this was the only male portrait by Reynolds at Waddesdon. It was bought as a pendant to a painting by Gainsborough of the Prince of Wales, creating a direct comparison between these 18th-century rivals.
1778
Oil on canvas
2398.0 x 1475.0mm
2259
Where you'll find this
Waddesdon Manor
Permanent collection
Deepen your knowledge
Captain John Hayes St Leger
Sir Joshua Reynolds at Waddesdon
•
1:15
Red Drawing Room
Discover Waddesdon Manor - Audio Tour
•
0:57