Frederick North, 2nd Earl of Guilford

What it is

This is an oil portrait of Frederick North, painted by Nathaniel Dance-Holland around 1773–74. It shows North seated, wearing a black robe trimmed with gold embroidery and a blue sash, with red drapery behind him. The painting is held by the National Portrait Gallery.

Why it matters

Painted while North was serving as Prime Minister, this portrait became the standard likeness used to represent him in history books. It shows how an eighteenth-century politician wanted to be remembered: dignified, composed, and dressed in the formal clothing of high office, at a time when his government's policies were pushing Britain toward war with its American colonies.

Look closer

• What does North's pose and clothing suggest about his status and role?
• Why might a painter choose rich fabrics and a formal seated pose for a political leader?
• What does this portrait not tell us about the decisions North was making at this time?