Getty Museum Unveils New Analysis of Joshua Reynolds' Masterpiece

The Getty Museum in Los Angeles is conducting a thorough study of Joshua Reynolds' 18th century painting, The Portrait of Mai, ahead of its West Coast debut on September 14.

The nearly eight foot canvas, which depicts a young Tahitian man who arrived in London with Captain James Cook in 1774, was recently acquired by the Getty in a joint purchase with the National Portrait Gallery in London. The painting was previously owned by a private individual in Dublin and was sold for over US$61 million.

The Getty's conservation team has been studying the painting, capturing new imaging and uncovering the pigments and materials used by Reynolds. They are also confirming any alterations that may have been made to the painting over the past 250 years.

The study is being led by the Getty's associate conservator of paintings, Kari Rayner, and visiting conservator from the National Portrait Gallery, Sally Higgs. The two conservators have been examining the painting closely, using headband magnifiers and a small bright light to study the brushstrokes, paint, and process used by Reynolds.

The Painting's History

The Portrait of Mai was first exhibited in 1776 at the Royal Academy in London. It is a prime example of Reynolds' work in the Grand Manner style, which defined his artistic approach.

The Study Process

The study of the painting is a condensed process, which has presented some challenges for the conservators. "When we do these types of studies, we end up with different questions," Rayner says. "That's one of the things about such a condensed study period that's been a little bit challenging."

The study is expected to provide new insights into the painting's history and the techniques used by Reynolds. The results of the study will be shared with the public ahead of the painting's West Coast debut.

The Painting's Details

The painting is a nearly eight foot canvas, measuring 2.4 meters in length. It was created by Joshua Reynolds, a renowned English portrait painter of the 18th century. The painting depicts a young Tahitian man who arrived in London with Captain James Cook in 1774.