Henry Edwards Huntington

With his wife, Arabella, Henry Huntington built this grand mansion, filled with art, and planned to have it open to the public at his death. He engaged Birley to paint his portrait and that of his wife (on display opposite) so as to be able to represent them in their planned institution. Henry is portrayed as politely welcoming, but with subtle undertones of impatience: with spine erect, hands clenched in readiness, knees spread in anticipation of standing. Although similar in their somber tone and loose brushwork, each portrait reveals its sitter's distinct personality.