We invited our Gallery Coordinators to share their favourite pieces from Unseen Treasures of the Portland Collection as it draws to a close.
From a Renaissance drawing to 17th century horse paintings, their choices are as diverse and distinctive as they are. Here’s what caught their eye – and why…
Hannah
Currently working towards her MA by research, Hannah is exploring embroidered gauntlet gloves from the early 1600s. Her love of historic textiles shines through in her choice: a portrait of an unknown woman, once thought to be Frances Howard, Countess of Essex and Somerset, painted by George Geldorp in the early 1620s.
“My favourite item is the painting of previously thought to be Francis Howard, because I like her cheeky expression and the detail in her outfit.”
Jasmine
A contemporary artist and muralist, Jasmine recently joined the Harley team. Her painting background is reflected in her selection: “My favourite item in the museum is the River Landscape painting by Robert Griffier (1688-1750). I love the way he creates such a strong illusion of depth and distance within the landscape, contrasting to the level of detail within the foreground trees.”
Joseph
Alongside his work at the Harley Foundation, Joseph is a classically inspired fine artist working in oil paint. His pick is a portrait of Charles II as a young boy, painted in 1638 by Anthony van Dyck. “Van Dyck played a crucial role in my understanding of this type of painting and its application. How colour, form, texture could be used to capture subtleties in natural lighting and environmental conditions at the time of the sitter sitting for his portrait.”
Grace
Grace has been a Gallery Coordinator for two months and recently started a degree in Fine Art. Her favourite piece is Michelangelo’s Madonna del Silenzio: “I find the piece completely enthralling, and feel that it is such an honour to work so closely with the work of arguably one of the most fascinating artists. People travel from far and wide to see it, and I believe that is a testament to the gravity it holds.”
Jill
Jill has worked as a Gallery Coordinator since 2016 and is a trained art therapist. Her interest in William Cavendish and horsemanship began during her time working at Bolsover Castle.
“The 1630s horse paintings were commissioned as part of a series of twelve landscape paintings by The First Duke of Newcastle, William Cavendish. I am fascinated by the scale of the pieces for British art of that time. William advocated for more respectful training methods of dressage, which was progressive during the 17th Century.”
Barrie
Alongside his work at the Harley, Barrie is an award-winning TV psychic medium, presenter, and broadcaster. His choice reflects his interest in storytelling and the supernatural:
“I’d have to say the portrait of the Digby family for the story of the snake venom and Kenelm feeding it to his wife for her eternal beauty and health.”
Sam
Sam recently joined us as a Gallery Coordinator, alongside his role at Bolsover Castle. He’s also a practicing contemporary artist and exhibited in the 2024 Harley Open. His selection? The Tower of Babel by Lucas van Valkenborch:
“I enjoy the scale, detail, and grandeur of the painting. Every section has motion and a narrative. Also the staggering tower slowly engulfed by the clouds, hidng yet teasing something more. Thus drawing us in and climbing it ourselves to seek what’s beyond.”
