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William Beechey Most Popular Paintings

The 25 artworks by William Beechey our visitors ask for most, ranked by popularity and presented one by one, with the specification and the price of each hand-painted reproduction.

Edition 2026 · 25 artworks Each artwork painted to order
Linen canvas · Certificate of authenticity · Delivered worldwide William Beechey · 1753 – 1839

Admiral Edward Pellew (1757–1833), 1st Viscount Exmouth

1817 · British Library, London · original 272 x 180 cm

Admire Admiral Edward Pellew in this striking 1817 portrait by William Beechey! A captivating depiction of the 'Viscount Exmouth,' a celebrated naval hero and statesman, showcasing his military attire and commanding presence.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 1 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17726 × 39 cm Commission this artwork

George III (1738–1820), on Horseback

British Library, London · original 80 x 61 cm

Admire Sir William Beechey's masterful depiction of King George III on horseback – a regal portrait capturing the grandeur of Georgian Britain. Explore its history and artistic significance.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 2 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17727 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$29261 × 80 cm Commission at original size

George III on Horseback

British Library, London · original 80 x 61 cm

Admire Sir William Beechey's regal portrait of King George III on horseback, capturing the grandeur of Georgian Britain. Explore this iconic historical masterpiece.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 3 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17727 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$29261 × 80 cm Commission at original size

Mirza Abu'l Hasan Khan, Envoy Extraordinary from the King of Persia to the Court of George III

View the most popular artwork of William Beechey ranked #4: Mirza Abu'l Hasan Khan, Envoy Extraordinary from the King of Persia to the Court of George III

1810 · British Library, London · original 234 x 143 cm

Experience Beechey's masterful 1810 portrait of Mirza Abu'l Hasan Khan, capturing regal diplomacy and Enlightenment scholarship for your collection.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 4 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17725 × 40 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$1120143 × 234 cm Commission at original size

John Philip Kemble

1799 · Dulwich Picture Gallery, London

Sir William Beechey's 1799 portrait of John Philip Kemble captures the renowned actor with dignified poise. Explore this neoclassical masterpiece & theatrical history!

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 5 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17729 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Edward George Lind and his Son Montague

1800 · Yale Center for British Art, New Haven

Sir William Beechey's poignant portrait of Edward George Lind and his son Montague captures a tender family moment. Explore the Victorian era through masterful brushstrokes and historical detail.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 6 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

FRERE ET SOEUR

The Louvre, Paris

A serene Neoclassical portrait of childhood innocence featuring two siblings and a loyal dog by Sir William Beechey, capturing the tender spirit of the Georgian era for your private collection.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 7 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$20227 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

John Jervis, 1st Earl St Vincent

1807 · Government Art Collection, London

Admire Sir William Beechey’s 1807 portrait of John Jervis, 1st Earl of St Vincent – a masterful oil painting showcasing naval history & refined artistry.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 8 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17729 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Filmer Honywood

1780 · Parliamentary Art Collection, Лондон

Admire 'Filmer Honywood' by Sir William Beechey – a captivating 18th-century portrait showcasing elegance and detail. Explore the life & art of this renowned British painter.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 9 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

The Sisters, Misses Ann and Augusta Coventry

Huntington Museum of Art, Huntington

Explore 'The Sisters, Misses Ann and Augusta Coventry' by Sir William Beechey – a captivating portrait capturing the quiet intimacy of two women enjoying music and conversation. Discover its Impressionistic style and serene atmosphere.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 10 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

John Lamb, Master, Dean of Bristol

University of Cambridge, Cambridge

Admire John Lamb, Master, Dean of Bristol, by Sir William Beechey! This captivating portrait showcases the influential figure's dignified presence and refined style – a masterpiece of British art.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 11 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17729 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Portrait of the Duchess of York

1800 · Museo de Arte de Ponce, Ponce · original 88 x 68 cm

Admire 'Portrait of the Duchess of York' by Sir William Beechey – a captivating neoclassical portrait showcasing royalty and elegance. A stunning example of 18th-century British art.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 12 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$32468 × 88 cm Commission at original size

Kitty Packe

1820 · Oklahoma City Museum of Art, Oklahoma City · original 147 x 114 cm

Elegant portrait of a young woman in white dress, pearl necklace glinting, captured by Sir William Beechey in 1820; a timeless study of grace—discover or own this masterpiece.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 13 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$637114 × 147 cm Commission at original size

Joshua King, Fellow, President

University of Cambridge, Cambridge · original 76 x 64 cm

Admire Sir William Beechey's masterful portrait of Joshua King, Fellow and President of Queen’s College Cambridge (1830). Explore Georgian art and academic excellence at Art UK.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 14 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17729 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$29164 × 76 cm Commission at original size

Joshua King (1798–1857), Fellow (1820–1832), President (1832–1857)

Queens' College, Cambridge · original 76 x 64 cm

Admire Sir William Beechey's masterful portrait of Joshua King, Fellow and President of Queen’s College Cambridge (1830). Explore Georgian art & academic excellence!

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 15 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17729 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$29164 × 76 cm Commission at original size

William Paley (1743–1805), Fellow, Prebendary of St Paul's (1794), Author of 'Evidences of Christianity' (1794) (copy of George Romney)

View the most popular artwork of William Beechey ranked #16: William Paley (1743–1805), Fellow, Prebendary of St Paul's (1794), Author of 'Evidences of Christianity' (1794) (copy of George Romney)

1809 · Christ's College, Cambridge · original 75 x 62 cm

Admire Sir William Beechey's masterful depiction of theologian William Paley in this elegant portrait inspired by George Romney’s style. Explore the intricacies of neoclassical art and intellectual contemplation.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 16 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$28562 × 75 cm Commission at original size

William Gordon of Fyvie

1817 · The National Trust For Scotland, Turrief · original 234 x 145 cm

Sir William Beechey’s ‘William Gordon of Fyvie’ (1817) – a dramatic oil portrait in neoclassical style. Explore this 234x145cm masterpiece featuring a rugged landscape & dignified subject.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 17 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17726 × 39 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$1133145 × 234 cm Commission at original size

Portrait of a Lady

1805 · Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool · original 77 x 64 cm

Admire Sir William Beechey's exquisite Portrait of a Lady (c.1800-1805), housed at Walker Art Gallery, showcasing a captivating depiction of elegance and grace in British Romanticism.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 18 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17729 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$29364 × 77 cm Commission at original size

Thomas James Bulkeley

Jesus College, Oxford · original 76 x 63 cm

Admire Sir William Beechey's portrait of Thomas James Bulkeley, 7th Viscount Bulkeley, a distinguished figure from 18th-century England. A refined masterpiece showcasing aristocratic elegance and historical significance.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 19 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$28963 × 76 cm Commission at original size

Philip Meadows Martineau (1752–1829), Assistant Surgeon Surgeon (1778–1828)

1825 · Norfolk And Norwich University Hospital, Norwich · original 76 x 63 cm

Admire Sir William Beechey's masterful portrait of Philip Meadows Martineau, capturing the solemn gaze and refined attire of a distinguished surgeon from Victorian England. Explore this exquisite reproduction.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 20 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17729 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$28963 × 76 cm Commission at original size

Matthew Boulton

1803 · Birmingham Museums And Art Gallery, Birmingham

A striking portrait of Matthew Boulton by William Beechey (c.1802-1803), capturing the industrialist's serious demeanor and reflecting his significant role in the British economy.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 21 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Joseph Stannard

1824 · Norwich Castle Museum And Art Gallery, Norwich · original 56 x 43 cm

Discover 'Joseph Stannard' by Sir William Beechey – a stunning 1824 portrait capturing elegance and detail. Explore this masterpiece’s history, artistic influences & Norwich Castle Museum origins.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 22 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17727 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$21943 × 56 cm Commission at original size

Thomas Collins

1820 · City of Westminster Archives Centre, London · original 125 x 101 cm

Sir William Beechey This JSON response provides a concise meta description for the artwork "Thomas Collins" by Sir William Beechey, highlighting its artistic significance and recommending it for viewing on WikiOO.org. Admire Sir William Beechey's masterful portrait of Thomas Collins—a dignified depiction capturing the essence of Georgian society. Explore this iconic artwork at WikiOO.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 23 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$518101 × 125 cm Commission at original size

Edward Simeon

1808 · Reading Museum, Reading · original 183 x 152 cm

Sir William Beechey Admire Sir William Beechey's masterful depiction of George Washington in this elegant portrait from 1808. Explore the rich details and contemplative atmosphere of this iconic American masterpiece.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 24 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$957152 × 183 cm Commission at original size

George Maltby, Esq

1782 · Durham University, Durham

Sir William Beechey’s dignified 1782 portrait of George Maltby, Esq., exemplifies late Georgian aristocratic portraiture with its muted tones and subtle realism. Discover this stunning piece and elevate your collection today.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 25 of 366 artworks by William Beechey
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

The artist

William Beechey

1753 – 1839

Quick facts

Top-ranked workAdmiral Edward Pellew (1757–1833), 1st Viscount Exmouth
Top 3 worksAdmiral Edward Pellew (1757–1833), 1st Viscount Exmouth, George III (1738–1820), on Horseback, George III on Horseback
Mediumsoil on canvas
Best occasionsaccent
NationalityUnited Kingdom
Typical colorsearthy
Corpus themesneoclassical ideals, beechey's signature style, royal patronage, neoclassical influence, social status
Topics exploredportrait, portraiture, royalty, british art, victorian era

Biography

Early Life and Artistic Beginnings

Sir William Beechey, born December 12, 1753, in the quaint Oxfordshire town of Burford, embarked on a life that would see him become a prominent figure in British portraiture. His early years were marked by tragedy; both his parents passed away while he was still young, leaving his upbringing to the care of his uncle, Samuel Beechey, a solicitor. Initially destined for a legal career, young William’s heart lay elsewhere—in the captivating world of art. Despite his uncle's aspirations, Beechey gravitated towards painting, an inclination that ultimately led him to London and admission into the Royal Academy Schools in 1772. This marked a pivotal moment, placing him within the orbit of established artists and setting the stage for his artistic development. His early training likely benefited from the guidance of Johan Zoffany, though concrete evidence remains elusive, shaping his initial style towards small-scale full-length portraits and intimate conversation pieces reminiscent of Zoffany’s own work.

A Rising Star: Norwich and London

Beechey's artistic journey took him to Norwich in 1782, where he established a foothold as a portraitist among the region’s gentry. He secured commissions for portraits of prominent figures like John Wodehouse, and notably contributed four works to the collection of civic portraits at St Andrew’s Hall—a testament to his growing reputation. However, London beckoned, and in 1787 he returned to the capital, determined to make his mark on a larger stage. The late 1780s saw Beechey steadily gaining recognition, exhibiting works that showcased his developing skill and refined technique. A turning point arrived with his portrait of John Douglas, Bishop of Carlisle, exhibited in 1789—a work that garnered considerable attention and solidified his position within the London art scene. He skillfully navigated the conventions of the time, drawing inspiration from masters like Joshua Reynolds while forging a style uniquely his own.

Royal Patronage and National Recognition

The year 1793 proved transformative for Beechey. Through a fortunate turn of events—a disgruntled sitter bringing his portrait to the attention of King George III and Queen Charlotte—Beechey found himself appointed as Queen Charlotte’s official portrait painter. This royal endorsement catapulted him into the upper echelons of artistic society, opening doors to a stream of prestigious commissions. He was elected an associate member of the Royal Academy that same year, further cementing his status. The following year brought even greater acclaim; in 1798, he painted *George III and the Prince of Wales Reviewing Troops*, a large-scale composition that earned him a knighthood and full membership to the Royal Academy. Though tragically lost in the 1992 Windsor Castle fire, this work exemplified Beechey’s ability to handle grand historical scenes alongside his more intimate portraiture. His success during this period was not merely artistic; it was deeply intertwined with the social and political landscape of Britain, reflecting a growing national pride and a flourishing aristocratic culture.

Style, Legacy, and Lasting Influence

Beechey’s style is characterized by its refined elegance, subtle coloring, and meticulous attention to detail. He favored neoclassical compositions, often depicting his sitters in graceful poses reminiscent of classical sculpture. While not a radical innovator like some of his contemporaries—such as Thomas Lawrence—his consistent quality and ability to capture the likeness and character of his subjects earned him widespread acclaim. His portraits possess a dignified restraint, avoiding excessive drama or flamboyant flourishes. This approach appealed particularly to the royal family and the upper classes, who valued decorum and understated elegance. Despite some criticism leveled by Samuel Redgrave in 1890—who found Beechey’s work lacking in grace and his drapery somewhat clumsy—Beechey maintained a respectable position among British portraitists. His works continue to be celebrated for their technical skill and insightful portrayals of prominent figures from the late 18th and early 19th centuries, including Lord Nelson, John Kemble, and Sarah Siddons. His legacy endures not only through his paintings but also as a testament to the enduring power of portraiture in capturing the spirit of an era.

Family and Further Contributions

Beechey’s personal life was marked by both joy and sorrow. He married Mary Ann Jones in 1778, and following her death, he wed Anne Phyllis Jessop, a successful miniature painter, in 1793. Through these unions, he fathered several children who also pursued artistic careers. His sons, Henry William Beechey—a painter and explorer—and Frederick William Beechey—a naval officer, geographer, and writer—carried on the family tradition of creative endeavor. Beechey’s influence extended beyond his own paintings; he was known for his generosity towards aspiring artists, particularly John Constable, whom he mentored. He retired to Hampstead in 1836, where he passed away in 1839, leaving behind a rich artistic legacy that continues to captivate and inspire. His contributions to British art remain significant, offering valuable insights into the lives and times of those who shaped the nation’s history.

Questions & Answers

Can I sort William Beechey's artworks by color?

The Spectral Index of William Beechey is a page that organizes the artist's artworks by their colors.

In which historical period did William Beechey work?

William Beechey worked in the Early-Modern period. The period situates the artist's activity in history.

Is there a timeline of William Beechey's works?

A timeline of William Beechey's works exists: the artist's Artwork Timeline page orders the artworks by creation date.

By the WikiOO.org Editorial Team Updated Aug. 31, 2026

Collector's quiz

Sir William Beechey is best known as a portraitist during what period?
Who was one of Beechey's most prominent royal patrons?
What style is Beechey’s work often described as being?
Before becoming a painter, Beechey initially trained to be what?
Beechey was appointed portrait painter to Queen Charlotte in which year?

one You choose the size

Standard formats or any custom dimension, matched to the proportions of the original.

two We paint and send a preview

A photo of the finished canvas for your approval before it is shipped.

three Delivered, certified

Rolled, stretched or framed, insured, with a certificate of authenticity.

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All artworks by William Beechey