'Fleetwood Hesketh', Joseph Wright of Derby, 1769

Oil on canvas, 127 x 102 cm

Accession Number WAG10846

Fleetwood Hesketh came from a family of Lancashire landowners. Although they lived in the Southport area, the family had business interests in Liverpool.

Here, Wright| has shown Hesketh in his hunting costume. His gun, powder horn and faithful dog are all clearly visible. The portrait creates a vivid presence. He is painted close to the picture plane and is strongly lit and meticulously observed. The outdoor setting and hunting clothes all help to give Hesketh the air of a trusted custodian of the land.