George Taylor

George Taylor by George Smeeton

George Smeeton, circa 1812-1813

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About this artwork

This portrait of “George Taylor” captures him as a pugilist and showman, dressed in modest attire that hints at his profession. The image is rendered in stipple—fine dotted lines—then hand‑coloured to give depth and warmth to face and clothing. This method was popular in early nineteenth‑century prints, allowing detailed likenesses while still appearing as a single plate.

The picture was probably published by printer George Smeeton, who worked from 1800 to 1828 and produced around forty‑three portraits. The work now lives in the National Portrait Gallery, London.

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George Taylor 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.

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