Study for King Lear

Joshua Reynolds, a prominent 18th-century British portraitist, created Study for King Lear in 1760, reflecting his mastery of the Rococo style known for its elegance and fluidity. This work serves as a sketch and study, executed in oil on canvas, capturing the emotional intensity and dramatic character suggested by the title. Reynolds’ technique combines rich brushwork with careful attention to expression and gesture, highlighting his role in advancing British portraiture and historical painting during this period. The piece exemplifies the preparatory process behind a more finished composition, emphasizing psychological depth and theatricality.