Charles Murray
- Artist: John Chapman
- Artist: Henry Delahoy Symonds
- Date: 1797
- Medium: stipple
- Dimensions: Long Term Loan
- Portrays: Charles Murray
- Museum: The National Portrait Gallery
- Collection record: The National Portrait Gallery website
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About this artwork
In this stippled engraving of actor‑and‑dramatic Charles Murray (1754–1821), John Chapman has rendered the young man in a poised pose. Notice how the fine stippling creates texture on his face—eyes sharp, lips slightly turned—while the simple background lets him stand out. Published by bookseller Henry Delahoy Symonds in 1797, this portrait was part of a series that brought stage actors to a broader public eye. The image shows Murray with a subtle profile hinting at his theatrical presence. This engraving was later lent to the National Portrait Gallery, allowing visitors like you to see the detailed work from close range.
See it in person
Charles Murray is in the collection of The National Portrait Gallery at St Martin's Place, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
