Unknown painting correctly identified as a work by Gainsborough after 60 years

A previously unknown portrait of a one-armed naval veteran, which had been stored away for several decades, has now been credited to renowned 18th century painter Thomas Gainsborough. The painting, depicting Captain Frederick Cornewall, was bequeathed to the Royal Museums Greenwich (RMG) in 1960 by art collector Edward Peter Jones, but doubts lingered regarding its authenticity. However, last year, art historian Hugh Belsey confirmed the painting’s true authorship, leading RMG to launch a fundraising campaign to finance its extensive conservation, expected to be completed in time for its display at the Queen’s House in 2022.

While the painting was attributed to Gainsborough, RMG’s former curator was not entirely convinced due to its perceived lack of refinement in comparison to the artist’s other works. Consequently, the portrait was consigned to storage until Belsey’s request prompted its examination. Current RMG curator Katherine Gazzard described the revelation as “a cautionary tale,” highlighting the need for rigour in the art community’s evaluations, but also expressed excitement about the discovery.

Belsey dated the painting to circa 1762, during Gainsborough’s residence in Bath. He stated that the artwork reflected the artist’s rapid development and growing confidence during this period. The renewed attribution of the painting to Gainsborough has been well-received, with Miranda Brain, RMG’s painting conservation manager, detailing the necessary restoration tasks, including the removal of varnish and dust accumulation, as well as the stabilization of the fragile canvas and frame.

Gazzard praised the portrait’s understated yet captivating quality, noting the attention to detail that reveals additional layers of meaning upon closer inspection. Gainsborough’s portrayal of Cornewall as a brave warrior, emphasizing his missing arm, adds to the painting’s poignant narrative. Gazzard expressed gratitude to Belsey for helping uncover the painting’s true significance and rescue it from obscurity, describing the experience as “thrilling.”