The artwork, titled “Thomas Day,” was created by the distinguished artist Joseph Wright in the year 1770. It is an exquisite oil painting on canvas, measuring 121.9 x 97.8 cm. The piece represents a blend of Rococo and Romanticism art movements, and it falls under the genre of portraiture. Currently, the artwork is housed in the National Portrait Gallery in London, UK.
In the artwork, the subject, Thomas Day, is depicted in a stately and composed manner, exuding an air of intellectual presence and sophistication. He is seen leaning against a column, with his right arm resting nonchalantly, while his left hand holds a piece of paper, hinting at his scholarly pursuits or contemplations. The background features a dramatic sky typical of Romanticism, with swirling clouds contributing to the moody atmosphere. The attire of Thomas Day is rendered in fine detail, with the sheen of the fabric and the cascading folds of his cape showcasing Wright’s mastery in capturing texture and light. The overall composition is both grand and intimate, reflecting the subject’s stature and personality through meticulous artistry.