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Student Artwork Guide

Agnes Coussmaker

John Hoppner, 1788

Name Class Date
John Hoppner, Agnes Coussmaker (1788), Taft Museum of Art. Public domain.

The facts

Artist
John Hoppner artsdot.com/en/artists/john-hoppner/
Artist’s dates
1758 – 1810
Painted
1788
Medium
Acrylic On Canvas
Original size
76 x 63 cm
Movement
Baroque Dramatic, theatrical pictures using deep shadow and strong diagonals to pull you into the action.
Period
19th Century
Held at
Taft Museum of Art artsdot.com/en/museums/taft-museum-of-art-cincinnati/
Artistic style
Portraiture, Colourful
Influences
Reynolds
Notable elements
Blue ribbon, landscape
Subject or theme
Female Portrait

Copyright This work is in the public domain. John Hoppner died in 1810; copyright lasts 70 years after the artist’s death, so it ended in 1880.

Source: ArtsDot.com — accessed Aug. 26, 2026

Agnes Coussmaker — John Hoppner Part 1 · The artwork

In context

Agnes Coussmaker — John Hoppner

How big is it?

The original measures 76 × 63 cm (height × width), drawn here beside an adult of average height.

When was this painted?

  1. 1750
  2. 1760
  3. 1770
  4. 1780
  5. 1790
  6. 1800
  7. 1810

Shaded: the lifetime of John Hoppner (1758–1810) ▲ this work, 1788

Compare with

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-hoppner-agnes-coussmaker-D7B7XT-en/

Colours

Measured from the image

    Main colour

    Phthalo Green #1a1c12

    Catalogued palette

    • #1A1C12
    • #424433
    • #807358
    • #C2B092
    Main colour name
    Phthalo Green
    Intensity
    Monochromatic How saturated and varied the colours are, from a single toned-down hue to many bright ones.
    Contrast
    Statement How much the colours differ in lightness and saturation across the picture.
    Harmony
    Balanced Harmony How well the colours work together, from clashing to fully unified.
    Brightness
    Shadow How light or dark the picture reads overall, from deep shadow to bright highlight.
    Saturation
    Muted How pure and strong the colours are, from near-grey to fully vivid.

    Source: ArtsDot.com — accessed Aug. 26, 2026

    Agnes Coussmaker — John Hoppner Part 2 · In context

    About this artwork

    Agnes Coussmaker — John Hoppner

    Agnes Coussmaker by John Hoppner: A Portrait of Regency Grace

    John Hoppner’s “Agnes Coussmaker,” painted in 1788, is more than just a likeness; it's a window into the refined sensibilities of the late Georgian era. This captivating portrait captures a young woman – Agnes Coussmaker herself – with an arresting directness that speaks volumes about the burgeoning ideals of self-representation prevalent during this period. The painting’s immediate impact lies in Hoppner’s masterful use of color, particularly the luminous white of Agnes' dress which contrasts dramatically against the cooler tones of the landscape backdrop. This technique, characteristic of his work and influenced by artists like Reynolds, immediately draws the viewer’s eye to the subject, establishing her as the undeniable focal point.

    Subject & Composition: The portrait presents Agnes seated in a relaxed yet dignified pose, her gaze meeting the viewer's with an open honesty. Two secondary figures – presumably family members or attendants – flank her, subtly reinforcing the theme of domestic harmony and social standing so important within Regency society.

    Technique - Hoppner’s Palette: Hoppner was renowned for his vibrant color palette and loose brushwork, a style that allowed him to capture both the physical appearance and the personality of his subjects. Notice the delicate rendering of her blonde hair, achieved through layers of translucent glazes – a hallmark of eighteenth-century oil painting technique.

    A Landscape as Reflection

    The background landscape is not merely decorative; it functions symbolically, reflecting Agnes’s status and aspirations. The distant mountains, rendered with atmospheric perspective, evoke notions of grandeur and permanence, aligning with the ideals of aristocratic lineage. The inclusion of a rural scene subtly suggests an appreciation for nature – a fashionable sentiment amongst the upper classes at the time – while simultaneously maintaining a sense of distance and refinement. Hoppner skillfully integrates this natural element into the composition, creating a harmonious balance between portraiture and landscape.

    Historical Context: Painted in 1788, “Agnes Coussmaker” reflects the growing importance of portraiture as a means of social and economic advancement. Commissioning a portrait was an investment, demonstrating wealth and status within a society where lineage and connections were paramount.

    Royal Patronage & Artistic Influence: Hoppner’s success stemmed in part from his association with the Royal Academy and subsequent royal patronage. This afforded him access to the finest materials and opportunities for artistic development, further refining his already considerable talent.

    Symbolism of Dress and Presentation

    Agnes' attire – a simple yet elegant white dress adorned with a blue ribbon – speaks volumes about her social standing and the prevailing fashion trends of the time. White was associated with purity and innocence, while the ribbon added a touch of understated luxury. The direct gaze she offers the viewer is equally significant; it represents confidence, intelligence, and an awareness of one’s own position within society. Hoppner's ability to capture this nuanced interplay of visual cues elevates “Agnes Coussmaker” beyond a mere representation of a young woman – it becomes a carefully constructed statement about identity and social expectations.

    Collecting the Legacy

    This meticulously hand-painted reproduction captures the essence of Hoppner’s masterpiece, offering an exceptional opportunity to own a piece of Regency art history. Its dimensions (76 x 63 cm) make it suitable for a variety of interior spaces, from formal drawing rooms to contemporary living areas. The artwork's enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport the viewer back to a time of elegance, social grace, and artistic brilliance – a timeless testament to John Hoppner’s skill and vision.

    Source: ArtsDot.com — accessed Aug. 26, 2026

    Agnes Coussmaker — John Hoppner Part 3 · About this artwork

    Artist and museum

    Artist

    John Hoppner

    Born in Whitechapel, United Kingdom

    a life of artistry and royal patronage

    john hoppner, a prominent english portrait painter, left an indelible mark on the art world with his vibrant colour palette. born in whitechapel, london, in 1758 to german parents, hoppner's life was marked by royal patronage and artistic brilliance.

    early life and training

    at a young age, hoppner became a chorister at the royal chapel, but his inclination towards art led him to enter the royal academy in 1775.

    in 1778, he received a silver medal for drawing from life, and in 1782, the gold medal for historical painting with his work on king lear.

    rise to fame and notable works

    john hoppner's portraits of women and children were deemed his most successful works by competent judges. his touch, characterized by breadth and freedom, gave his paintings a faint reflection of the charm of reynolds. notable works include:

    mrs jordan as viola in 'twelfth night', now at english heritage (london, united kingdom), showcasing his mastery over portrait painting.

    his portraits of the prince of wales, the duke and duchess of york, lord rodney, and lord nelson, which were hung in the state apartments at st james's palace, demonstrate his high societal connections.

    legacy and later life

    john hoppner's life was marked by a chronic liver disease. he died on january 23, 1810. despite this, his legacy endures through his vibrant portraits that continue to captivate art lovers.

    explore more of john hoppner's works at https://AllPaintingsStore.com/@/johnhoppner.

    discover the broader context of british art at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/art_of_the_united_kingdom.

    further reading and exploration

    for a deeper dive into the world of british art, consider the following:

    discovering the artworks of dyrham park, united kingdom

    sir edwin landseer lutyens, an english architect known for his imaginative adaptations.

    Museum

    Taft Museum of Art

    On show in Cincinnati, United States of America

    A Cincinnati Jewel: The Living History of the Taft Museum of Art

    Nestled within the heart of Cincinnati, Ohio, the Taft Museum of Art is far more than a mere repository for beautiful objects; it is an intimate journey through time and artistry, housed within a building that breathes history itself. Originally constructed around 1820 as a private residence, this National Historic Landmark stands as the oldest domestic wooden structure in downtown Cincinnati. Its very walls echo with the stories of the prominent families—the Baum, Longworth, Sinton, and Taft lineages—who shaped the city’s cultural landscape. Stepping through its doors is akin to entering a beautifully preserved home, albeit one brimming with masterpieces spanning centuries and continents. The museum's charm lies in this unique setting; it is not a cold, imposing palace of art, but rather an inviting space where visitors can connect with creativity on a personal level, appreciating the delicate interplay between fine artwork and domestic life.

    The transformation of this elegant home into a public treasure is a tale steeped in civic generosity and profound passion. The Taft family, particularly Charles Phelps and Anna Sinton Taft, were avid collectors who amassed an impressive array of European and American art. Their desire to share this passion with the wider community led them to bequeath both their home and their collection to the people of Cincinnati in 1927. This act of philanthropy established the museum as a beacon of cultural enrichment, dedicated to making art accessible to all. The house itself witnessed a pivotal moment in American history when William Howard Taft accepted his presidential nomination from its very portico in 1908, further cementing its place within the nation’s narrative. While a significant renovation and expansion completed in 2004 added modern amenities like a museum shop and café, these additions were meticulously designed to preserve the building's original, historic character.

    Masterpieces of Light, Shadow, and Landscape

    The Taft Museum boasts an exceptionally diverse collection, with particular strengths in European Old Master paintings and American art that command the attention of collectors and connoisseurs alike. Visitors can lose themselves in the luminous brushstrokes of

    Rembrandt van Rijn

    , specifically his

    Portrait of a Man Rising from His Chair

    , a work that captures both psychological depth and masterful technique through its interplay of light and shadow. The romantic landscapes of

    J.M.W. Turner

    , such as

    Europa and the Bull

    , transport viewers to ethereal realms of color and atmosphere. Beyond the canvas, the museum showcases exquisite examples of decorative arts that serve as inspiration for interior designers seeking timeless elegance. From delicate Chinese porcelains and intricate Limoges enamels to elegant European furniture and meticulously crafted watches, the collection offers a glimpse into the refined tastes of bygone eras.

    However, perhaps the most singular and breathtaking treasure within the Taft’s holdings are the monumental murals painted directly onto the walls by

    Robert S. Duncanson

    between 1851 and 1852. These eight large-scale landscapes represent the most significant pre–Civil War domestic murals in the United States, serving as a testament to Duncanson's skill as the first widely known African-American landscape painter to achieve international acclaim. To stand before these murals is to witness a groundbreaking moment in American art history, where the landscape becomes a living part of the architecture itself.

    An Intimate Encounter with Artistic Excellence

    What truly sets the Taft Museum of Art apart from sprawling metropolitan institutions is its intimate scale and atmosphere. Unlike the overwhelming corridors of larger museums, the Taft invites close contemplation and encourages visitors to linger, absorbing the fine details of each artwork within the cozy, contextual setting of a historic home. This intimacy fosters a unique sense of discovery, where every corner turned reveals a new layer of beauty. The museum’s commitment extends beyond simple display; it actively fosters engagement through educational programs, lectures, workshops, and guided tours designed for audiences of all ages and backgrounds. This dedication to accessibility ensures that the Taft remains not just a repository of artistic treasures, but a vibrant hub for learning, creativity, and community connection—a true Cincinnati jewel offering an unforgettable experience for every art enthusiast and curious visitor.

    Where to read more

    Find this online

    QR code linking to the download page for Agnes Coussmaker

    artsdot.com/en/art/download/john-hoppner-agnes-coussmaker-D7B7XT-en/

    Cite this artwork

    MLA
    Hoppner, John. Agnes Coussmaker. 1788, Taft Museum of Art. https://artsdot.com/en/art/john-hoppner-agnes-coussmaker-D7B7XT-en/
    APA
    Hoppner, John (1788). Agnes Coussmaker [Painting]. Taft Museum of Art. https://artsdot.com/en/art/john-hoppner-agnes-coussmaker-D7B7XT-en/
    Chicago
    John Hoppner. Agnes Coussmaker. 1788. Taft Museum of Art. https://artsdot.com/en/art/john-hoppner-agnes-coussmaker-D7B7XT-en/
    Harvard
    Hoppner, John (1788) Agnes Coussmaker. Taft Museum of Art. Available at: https://artsdot.com/en/art/john-hoppner-agnes-coussmaker-D7B7XT-en/

    Source: ArtsDot.com — accessed Aug. 26, 2026

    Agnes Coussmaker — John Hoppner Part 4 · Artist and museum

    Look closely

    Agnes Coussmaker — John Hoppner

    Look closely

    Answer in your own words. There are no wrong answers here — only answers you can explain.

    1. What catches your eye first, and why?
    2. Which colours or shapes create the mood — and what is that mood?
    3. Our catalogue files this work under: portrait painting, female figure, landscape backdrop. Do you agree? What would you add, or take away?
    4. Look back at Richard Humphreys, the Boxer, earlier in this guide. Name two things it shares with this work, and one that is different.
    5. Baroque: Dramatic, theatrical pictures using deep shadow and strong diagonals to pull you into the action. Where can you see that in this work?

    Your response

    Write a short paragraph about this artwork. Use the facts from the earlier parts of this guide, and your answers above.