Self-portrait

George Chinnery, 1774–1852

1848

Pen and brown ink and graphite on medium, slightly textured, cream wove paper

Yale Center for British Art

A sketch depicts a man seated, holding a palette and brush, with an easel and canvas visible behind him. Faint sketches of figures are in the upper left. George Chinnery first traveled from Britain to India in 1802, seeking to make his fortune as a portrait painter. In Madras, he sought out high-status clients to bolster his reputation, such as the major general shown in this loosely rendered watercolor. This was likely a preparatory sketch for an oil portrait. Despite steady commissions, Chinnery fell into debt and fled to Macao in 1825. His studio in Macao attracted Company agents, tourists, and fellow artists, who came to enjoy his wit, charm, and storytelling. He produced numerous self-portraits, which may have served as souvenirs for visitors. This example may have been drawn fo