The artwork, titled “Harry Peckham, Esq. (1740–1787), Recorder of Chichester (1785),” was created by the artist George Romney in the year 1785. This piece belongs to the Rococo art movement and is classified under the genre of portrait.
The artwork portrays Harry Peckham in a dignified position, displaying the formal attire associated with his esteemed position as Recorder of Chichester. He is depicted with a composed expression, holding a book firmly against his chest, symbolizing his connection to the legal profession and intellectual pursuits. His attire, consisting of a dark coat with gold buttons and a white collar, is meticulously detailed, demonstrating Romney’s artistic prowess. The soft lighting, typical of the Rococo style, highlights Peckham’s features and adds a sense of realism and depth to the piece. The background is kept subtle, ensuring that the focus remains on the subject. The composition and the choice of elements collectively exude an aura of authority and respectability characteristic of the period.
