The English Rembrandt

Thomas Worlidge (1700–1766) was one of the most well-known portrait painters and etchers in England in the 18th century. Honoured by his contemporaries as the ‘English Rembrandt’, he was heavily influenced by the prints and drawings of the Dutch master, and may be regarded as a leading figure in the Rembrandt revival in England in the 18th century. The majority of Worlidge's works were his own creations not copies, but he either partially adapted or was inspired by Rembrandt's works, especially the costumes. The caps in these sketches are similar to other portrait subjects by Worlidge described as 'oriental', such as his 'Portrait of a man dressed in furs' (Graphite on vellum, Metropolitan Museum of Art no.2014.765) and 'Portrait of unidentified man' (etching with drypoint, British Museum no.1907,0724.4) (image 2) and 'Head of an oriental man' (etching) and 'Portrait of unidentified man' (etching with drypoint, British Museum no. 1907,0724.5) (image 3).