Student Artwork Guide
Copyright This work is in the public domain. John Hayls died in 1679; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it ended in 1749.
In context
Colonel John Strode — John Hayls
The original measures 124 × 100 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.
Row above: the years. Row below: how old the artist was at the start and at the end of each span — 0 at birth, 79 at death.
Painted when the artist was 79. The artist lived to 79. 5 of the 6 dated works by this artist in our catalogue came earlier.
Shaded: the lifetime of John Hayls (1600–1679) ▲ this work, 1679 every dated painting, decade by decade
Pick one work above: name two things it shares with this one, and one thing that's different.
More works to set beside this one: artsdot.com/en/art/similar/john-hayls-colonel-john-strode-AQSRVR-en/
Measured from the image
Main colour
Phthalo Green #20190e
Catalogued palette
These colours inside the artist’s whole palette Find other paintings by colour
The ten leading countries
Find the three darkest countries on the map. Is the museum that keeps this painting in any of them? Write down one reason people far away might look at it.
Together these works take 100.0% of all the attention this artist's paintings received over the last twelve months. The catalogue holds 9 works by this artist, of which 4 were looked at at least once. This painting has not been looked at yet in that time — it closes the list without a rank. The same counts, month by month
Bars measure attention, not quality. Pick the work at the top and this one: name one thing that might make a painting famous beyond how well it is painted.
Artist and museum
John Hayls (1600–1679), also known as Hailes, stands as a significant yet often overlooked figure in 17th-century English portraiture. His career, spanning nearly eight decades, coincided with the flourishing of the Baroque style and witnessed the rise of prominent patrons eager to capture their likenesses on canvas. While overshadowed by the towering reputations of Peter Lely and Samuel Cooper, Hayls carved a distinct niche for himself through his remarkably accurate and engaging depictions of individuals, particularly his celebrated portrait of Samuel Pepys. His life was one of quiet dedication to his craft, marked by both artistic skill and a subtle rivalry within the competitive world of London’s art scene.
The precise details of John Hayls' early life remain somewhat elusive, shrouded in the gaps of historical records. He was born around 1600, though the exact date is uncertain. What is known is that he established himself as a portrait painter in London during the mid-17th century, immersing himself within the vibrant artistic community of the capital. While formal training is difficult to trace definitively, it’s believed Hayls honed his skills through observation and apprenticeship—likely absorbing techniques from more established artists of the time. His early works demonstrate a clear debt to the prevailing Baroque style, characterized by dramatic lighting, rich textures, and an emphasis on capturing the sitter's personality and status. Notably, he was recognized as a skilled copyist, skillfully replicating the mannerisms and compositions of the esteemed Flemish master, Van Dyck – a testament to his technical proficiency and dedication to mastering the nuances of portraiture.
Perhaps Hayls’ most enduring legacy rests upon his 1666 portrait of Samuel Pepys, diarist and naval administrator. This painting, now housed in the National Portrait Gallery, is a captivating study in detail and psychological insight. Pepys is depicted holding sheet music, a subtle reference to his musical interests, while his gaze is direct and engaging—a remarkable feat considering the period’s conventions for portraiture. The composition itself is carefully balanced, with Pepys occupying a central position within a richly furnished interior. Hayls masterfully employed chiaroscuro – the dramatic contrast between light and shadow – to sculpt Pepys' features and create a sense of depth and realism. Pepys himself was reportedly so pleased with the likeness that he commissioned a self-portrait from Hayls, further cementing the painter’s reputation. The painting is not merely a representation of a man; it’s a window into his character and social standing.
While the Pepys portrait undoubtedly dominates discussions surrounding Hayls' work, he produced a surprisingly diverse portfolio of commissions throughout his career. He painted portraits for prominent figures including Colonel John Russell (a grandson of Francis Russell, 4th Earl of Bedford), Lady Diana Russell, and Thomas Flatman, a poet. His ability to capture the individual characteristics of each sitter—from their attire to their expressions—demonstrates a keen eye for detail and an understanding of human psychology. Furthermore, he was commissioned to paint Joseph Harris as Henry V, showcasing his versatility and willingness to adapt to different subject matter and stylistic demands.
John Hayls’ contribution to English Baroque portraiture is often underestimated, overshadowed by the more celebrated names of Lely and Cooper. However, his meticulous attention to detail, coupled with a remarkable ability to capture the essence of his subjects, establishes him as a skilled and accomplished artist. His rivalry with Lely—a prominent court painter—likely fueled his ambition and contributed to his drive for excellence. Hayls’ work reflects the social and cultural landscape of 17th-century England, offering valuable insights into the lives and aspirations of the elite. His paintings serve as tangible reminders of a bygone era, providing a glimpse into the world of aristocratic patronage and the enduring power of portraiture to immortalize individuals and preserve their legacies. His sudden death in 1679 left a void in the London art scene, but his legacy continues to resonate through the remarkable likenesses he created—particularly that unforgettable portrait of Samuel Pepys.
artsdot.com/en/art/download/john-hayls-colonel-john-strode-AQSRVR-en/
Look closely
Colonel John Strode — John Hayls
Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.
Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.
In terms of perceived brightness, "Colonel John Strode" by John Hayls is deep_shadow.
"Colonel John Strode" is available as a fine art print on cotton canvas or archival canvas paper. Orders are placed on its Fine Art Print page, in the size of your choice.
"Colonel John Strode" by John Hayls is proportioned as a portrait work of 124 x 100 cm.