PETER PAILLOU Junior

Peter Paillou was the son of Peter Paillou Snr (fl.1744-1780/84), also an artist who is best known for his ornithological paintings for the naturalist and writer, Thomas Pennant (1726-1798). Paillou senior was thought to have painted some miniatures but most are now given to his son.

Paillou Jnr have worked between London and Glasgow, which can be inferred from the addresses given during exhibitions. He studied at the Royal Academy Schools and later exhibited at the Academy, 1786-1800.

The gentleman depicted here is at present unknown, but the portrait can be dated to circa 1810 based on his dress. The miniature is a good example of Paillou’s distinctive ‘sunset background’.[1] Paillou sometimes incorporated elaborate interiors as background and fine examples of both can be found in public collections of the National Galleries of Scotland and the Victoria and Albert Museum. 



[1] Foskett, D., Miniattures Dictionary and Guide, 1994 (Antique Collectors’ Club), p.207.