George Fraser
Summary
Three quarter length portrait of George Fraser, the owner of a Manchester shipping merchant's business with premises on Portland Street. A golfing enthusiast, Fraser was the inaugural captain of Manchester Golf Club in 1818, and in this later portrait he is dressed in a long red golfing jacket with white gloves and cravat; the scarlet wool of his coat suggests hunting and sporting dress generally. The golf club's emblem is visible on the left side of his jacket and holds a golf club with both hands, resting it on his left shoulder. Born in Manchester, the artist, William Bradley (1801-57), was orphaned when only 3 and had to work as an errand boy for many years. However, he had a talent for drawing and at 21 went to London with an introduction to Sir Thomas Lawrence. He established a portrait practice in London and then in 1847 returned to Manchester for the last ten years of his life. This portrait probably dates from that period.
Display Label
George Fraser about 1818-20 William Bradley 1801-57 Oil on canvas George Fraser was a cotton merchant but in this portrait he is shown as a proud golfer. Fraser was the first Captain and President of the Old Manchester Golf Club which met every week on Kersal Moor, Salford. The original nine members were enthusiastic golfers. In 1818 their course had five holes set within the racecourse that ran round the moor. William Bradley, the artist, was a Manchester man. He was the son of a partner in a cotton mill. Gift of the Shareholders of George Fraser, Son & Co. Ltd 1930.150
Object Name
George Fraser
Creators Name
Date Created
1840-50
Dimensions
unframed: 111.8cm x 91.5cm
accession number
1930.150
Collection Group
Place of creation
England
Support
canvas
Medium
oil paint
Credit
Gift of the shareholders of George Fraser and Son Co Ltd
Legal
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