Frederick Burnaby
- Artist: James Jacques Joseph Tissot
- Date: 1870
- Medium: oil on panel
- Dimensions: 19 5/8 in. x 24 in. (500 mm x 610 mm) overall
- Portrays: Frederick Gustavus Burnaby
- Museum: The National Portrait Gallery
- Collection record: The National Portrait Gallery website
Listen to the free audio guide
About this artwork
Here is a portrait of Frederick Gustavus Burnaby, painted in oil on panel in 1870 by the French artist James Jacques Joseph Tissot. Burnaby sits relaxed on a daybed, his long legs and tall figure highlighted by the scarlet stripe on his trousers. A cigarette rests in his hand while the plumed helmet and full‑dress uniform lie at his feet, showing he is off duty. Behind him hangs a map of the world, anchoring the scene in the empire’s reach. The painting was probably completed in London during Tissot’s visit to the city, capturing Burnaby as a dashing officer—tall, confident, and ready for adventure.
See it in person
Frederick Burnaby is in the collection of The National Portrait Gallery at St Martin's Place, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
