the collector's folio

John Simpson Most Popular Paintings

The 16 artworks by John Simpson our visitors ask for most, ranked by popularity and presented one by one, with the specification and the price of each hand-painted reproduction.

Edition 2026 · 16 artworks Each artwork painted to order
Linen canvas · Certificate of authenticity · Delivered worldwide John Simpson · 1782 – 1847

The Duke of Wellington (1769–1852)

The Royal Hospital Chelsea, London · original 256 x 175 cm

Admire John Simpson's masterful portrait of Arthur Wellesley, Duke of Wellington at Royal Hospital Chelsea! Explore British art history through this iconic depiction of Waterloo’s hero.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 1 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17526 × 38 cm Commission this artwork

Arthur Wellesley (1769–1852), 1st Duke of Wellington, KG

1835 · English Heritage, London · original 28 x 23 cm

Admire John Simpson's portrait of Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington, capturing his dignified gaze and commanding presence at Apsley House. Explore British art history through this iconic masterpiece.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 2 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17529 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Captain Peter Heywood (1773–1831)

1822 · original 76 x 64 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 3 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17529 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$28964 × 76 cm Commission at original size

George Goodman, Mayor (1836)

1836 · Leeds Civic Hall, Leeds · original 236 x 147 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 4 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17525 × 41 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$1153147 × 236 cm Commission at original size

Sir Herbert Taylor

1833 · original 76 x 64 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 5 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17529 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$28964 × 76 cm Commission at original size

Georgiana Maria (1794–1859), Lady de Tabley

original 74 x 61 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 6 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17527 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$27961 × 74 cm Commission at original size

Frederick Marryat (engraved 1826)

1826 · original 76 x 63 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 7 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17529 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$28763 × 76 cm Commission at original size

Henry Richard Vassall Fox, 3rd Baron Holland (copy after an original of 1829 by Charles Robert Leslie)

View the most popular artwork of John Simpson ranked #8: Henry Richard Vassall Fox, 3rd Baron Holland (copy after an original of 1829 by Charles Robert Leslie)

original 76 x 64 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 8 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17529 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$28964 × 76 cm Commission at original size

Head of a Man ( Ira Frederick Aldridge)

1827

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 9 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17528 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Head of a Negro

1827 · original 73 x 56 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 10 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17528 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$26656 × 73 cm Commission at original size

Sir John Fleming Leicester (1762–1827), 1st Lord de Tabley, in Peer's Robes

1826 · original 290 x 145 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 11 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17524 × 42 cm Commission this artwork

Queen Adelaide (1792–1849)

1832 · original 272 x 179 cm

Admire Queen Adelaide by John Simpson (1832). A stunning 18th-century portrait painting of the British Queen. Hand-painted reproduction available.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 12 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17525 × 39 cm Commission this artwork

Elizabeth Sykes (1775–1853), Mrs Wilbraham Egerton

1805 · original 127 x 102 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 13 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17528 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$525102 × 127 cm Commission at original size

Clarkson Stanfield (1793–1867)

1829 · original 76 x 64 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 14 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17529 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$28964 × 76 cm Commission at original size

Sir Charles Napier (1786–1860), Admiral

1841 · original 122 x 102 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 15 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17529 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$510102 × 122 cm Commission at original size

William IV (1765–1837)

1830 · original 272 x 179 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 16 of 23 artworks by John Simpson
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17525 × 39 cm Commission this artwork

The artist

John Simpson

1782 – 1847

Quick facts

Museums on APSEnglish Heritage, The Royal Hospital Chelsea, Leeds Civic Hall
Mediumsoil on canvas
Typical colorsphthalo green
NationalityUnited Kingdom
Copyright statusPublic domain
Top 3 worksThe Duke of Wellington (1769–1852), Arthur Wellesley (1769–1852), 1st Duke of Wellington, KG, Captain Peter Heywood (1773–1831)
Works on APS23
Art period19th Century

Biography

John Simpson: A Life in Portraiture

Early Life and Training

Born in London in 1782, John Simpson embarked on a career as a portrait painter during a vibrant period of British art.
He received his foundational training at the prestigious Royal Academy, honing his skills and establishing himself within the artistic community.
Crucially, Simpson spent several years as an assistant to Sir Thomas Lawrence, PRA – a leading portraitist of the era. This mentorship profoundly shaped his style and approach to capturing likenesses.

Artistic Development and Style

Simpson’s early work reflects the influence of Sir Thomas Lawrence, characterized by a refined technique and attention to detail. He quickly gained recognition for his ability to create flattering and accurate portraits.
He exhibited regularly at the Royal Academy from 1807 until his death, demonstrating consistent productivity and engagement with the art world.
While primarily a portraitist, Simpson’s work occasionally ventured beyond conventional society portraiture, hinting at a broader artistic sensibility.

Major Achievements and Commissions

Royal Patronage: In 1834, Simpson received a significant commission to travel to Portugal and paint portraits in Lisbon.
His success led to an appointment as Painter to the Queen of Portugal, solidifying his reputation on the international stage.
Notable Sitters: Simpson painted numerous prominent figures, including William IV and many other notable individuals of his time. His portraits provide valuable visual records of British society during the 19th century.

‘The Captive Slave’ and Rediscovery

A Turning Point: Simpson's painting, ‘The Captive Slave,’ created a significant shift in his artistic legacy. It remained largely unseen for nearly 180 years.
Acquisition and Recognition: The Art Institute of Chicago acquired the work in 2008, bringing it to public attention.
Abolitionist Significance: ‘The Captive Slave’ is now recognized as a powerful statement against slavery. It demonstrates Simpson's capacity for venturing beyond conventional portraiture and engaging with important social issues.

Legacy and Historical Significance

Despite some contemporary criticism suggesting his work lacked “instinct and penetration,” John Simpson established a successful career as a respected portrait painter.
Family of Artists: He had two sons who also pursued artistic careers – Charles, who died young, and Philip, who found success with small domestic subjects.
Enduring Impact: The rediscovery of ‘The Captive Slave’ has elevated Simpson's status, highlighting his talent and the painting’s importance as a symbol of the abolitionist movement. He is now recognized not only for his technical skill but also for his contribution to social commentary through art.

Questions & Answers

Which artworks by John Simpson are the most viewed?

Statistics about John Simpson's works are available on the artist's Stats page.

Is there a 3D virtual tour of John Simpson's works?

A virtual visit is possible: the 3D Museum page of John Simpson presents the artist's works in a three-dimensional gallery.

How do I find works by John Simpson on a specific theme?

The By Keywords page of John Simpson groups the artist's artworks by their keywords.

By the ArtsDot.com Editorial Team Updated Sept. 1, 2026

Collector's quiz

John Simpson was a student and assistant to which prominent British painter?
Simpson received a commission that led him to paint portraits in which European capital city?
What is the title of John Simpson's rediscovered painting, now considered his masterpiece and a significant work of abolitionist art?
According to a 19th-century biographer, Sidney Lee, what was a noted characteristic of Simpson's portraiture?
Besides John Simpson, how many of his sons also practiced as artists?

one You choose the size

Standard formats or any custom dimension, matched to the proportions of the original.

two We paint and send a preview

A photo of the finished canvas for your approval before it is shipped.

three Delivered, certified

Rolled, stretched or framed, insured, with a certificate of authenticity.

Commission your John Simpson

Every artwork by John Simpson in our catalog can be painted to order, in the size that suits the room.

All artworks by John Simpson