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Sir Martin Archer Shee Most Popular Paintings

The 25 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee 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 · 25 artworks Each artwork painted to order
Linen canvas · Certificate of authenticity · Delivered worldwide Sir Martin Archer Shee · 1769 – 1850

William Roscoe

1817 · Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool · original 1665 x 2330 cm

Sir Martin Archer Shee’s 1817 portrait of William Roscoe captures two men engrossed in conversation amidst a scholarly atmosphere, showcasing the artist's neoclassical style and offering a glimpse into Liverpool's cultural elite. Discover this captivating artwork and elevate your collection.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 1 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18126 × 38 cm Commission this artwork

Mr. Storer

Museo del Prado, Madrid · original 239 x 148 cm

Admire Sir Martin Archer Shee’s ‘Mr. Storer,’ a neoclassical portrait of Anthony Morris Storer. Explore its details, rich colors & historical significance – a masterpiece!

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 2 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18125 × 40 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$1212148 × 239 cm Commission at original size

Duke of Clarence (1765–1837), Later William IV

1800 · Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool · original 254 x 174 cm

Admire Sir Martin Archer Shee’s ‘Duke of Clarence,’ a grand 1800 portrait showcasing William IV in royal attire. Classical style, cityscape backdrop & meticulous detail – a timeless piece.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 3 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18125 × 39 cm Commission this artwork

Sir Francis Chantrey (1782–1841), RA

Royal Scottish Academy of Art - Architecture, Edinburgh · original 76 x 64 cm

Admire Sir Francis Chantrey's portrait! This striking painting captures the distinguished figure of a prominent Royal Academy member, showcasing masterful detail and formal elegance.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 4 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18129 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$29964 × 76 cm Commission at original size

William Roscoe (1753–1831)

1816 · Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool · original 141 x 111 cm

Discover William Roscoe (1816) by Sir Martin Archer Shee – a captivating portrait capturing the scholar's intellectual pursuits and serene atmosphere. Explore its history & artistry.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 5 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18126 × 38 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$624111 × 141 cm Commission at original size

Major General Sir Barry Close, Bt

Manchester Art Gallery, Manchester

Sir Martin Archer Shee (1769–1850) was a prominent Irish portrait painter who achieved international acclaim during his lifetime. Recognized for his refined neoclassical style and pivotal role as President of the Royal Academy, Shee cemented his place in British art history.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 6 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18128 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Vice Admiral Sir William George Fairfax (1739–1813)

National Trust, Warwick · original 125 x 99 cm

Admire Sir Martin Archer Shee's masterful portrait of Vice Admiral William George Fairfax. This stunning oil painting captures the distinguished naval officer, showcasing intricate detail and neoclassical style.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 7 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18127 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$52599 × 125 cm Commission at original size

Reverend Sir Abraham Elton (1755–1842), 5th Bt

1840 · National Trust, Clevedon · original 76 x 64 cm

This neoclassical portrait by Sir Martin Archer Shee captures a dignified gentleman. Shop this elegant oil on canvas reproduction today.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 8 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18129 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$29964 × 76 cm Commission at original size

John Cust, 1st Earl Brownlow

1835 · Belton House, Grantham · original 180 x 150 cm

Admire John Cust, 1st Earl Brownlow, captured in a striking 1835 portrait by Sir Martin Archer Shee. This detailed oil painting showcases the nobleman's dignified presence and reflects the era’s formal style.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 9 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18129 × 34 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$963150 × 180 cm Commission at original size

George Wilbraham of Delamere Lodge

1842 · Chester Castle, Chester · original 222 x 139 cm

This striking portrait by Sir Martin Archer Shee depicts George Wilbraham, MP, standing beside a table laden with books and papers. Executed in 1842, it exemplifies Shee’s neoclassical style and reflects the importance placed on intellect and social status during Victorian England. Admire Sir Martin Archer Shee's masterful portrait of George Wilbraham of Delamere Lodge, capturing the dignified st

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 10 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18123 × 43 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$1078139 × 222 cm Commission at original size

George Cary IV

Torre Abbey, Torbay

Sir Martin Archer Shee’s portrait of George Cary IV exemplifies early 19th-century Neoclassicism. Admire the dignified subject & atmospheric landscape in this oil on canvas masterpiece.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 11 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18128 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Lieutenant General Sir Thomas Picton

1812 · Amgueddfa Cymru, Cardiff

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 12 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18125 × 40 cm Commission this artwork

Charles Wightwick (c.1778–1861)

Pembroke College, Oxford · original 91 x 71 cm

Admire 'Charles Wightwick' by Sir Martin Archer Shee – a captivating portrait showcasing elegance and sophistication from 1817. A fine example of neoclassical art.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 13 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18128 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$34771 × 91 cm Commission at original size

William Popham

1814 · original 140 x 107 cm

1814 Portrait of William Popham by Sir Martin Archer Shee. A neoclassical oil painting showcasing military formality & rich detail. Explore this elegant 140x107cm artwork.

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 14 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18128 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$604107 × 140 cm Commission at original size

Sir William Webb Follett

1820 · original 43 x 31 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 15 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18127 × 38 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$19131 × 43 cm Commission at original size

Peter Atkinson

1825 · original 93 x 71 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 16 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18127 × 37 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$35271 × 93 cm Commission at original size

Sir Thomas Munro, 1st Bt

1819 · original 74 x 61 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 17 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18129 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$28861 × 74 cm Commission at original size

Thomas Poynder Junior, Treasurer of Christ's Hospital (1824–1835)

Christ's Hospital, Horsham · original 122 x 92 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 18 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18131 × 32 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$49192 × 122 cm Commission at original size

Sir George Thomas Staunton (1781–1859), Writer and Sinologist

Government Art Collection, London · original 127 x 100 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 19 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18128 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$535100 × 127 cm Commission at original size

George Cary IV (1769–1828)

Torre Abbey Historic House And Gardens, Torquay · original 75 x 60 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 20 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18128 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$28860 × 75 cm Commission at original size

Dr Matthew Baillie

1825

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 21 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18128 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Sir Edward Paget (1775–1849), General

Government Art Collection, London · original 89 x 71 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 22 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18128 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$34371 × 89 cm Commission at original size

Mr. Storer

original 239 x 148 cm

Admire Sir Martin Archer Shee’s ‘Mr. Storer,’ a neoclassical portrait of Anthony Morris Storer. Explore its details, rich colors & historical significance – a masterpiece!

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 23 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18125 × 40 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$1212148 × 239 cm Commission at original size

Madame Malibran (1808–1836)

Salford Museum - Art Gallery, Greater Manchester · original 91 x 70 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 24 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18127 × 38 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$34570 × 91 cm Commission at original size

A Young Bacchus

1824 · original 71 x 91 cm

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 25 of 99 artworks by Sir Martin Archer Shee
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$18136 × 28 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$34791 × 71 cm Commission at original size

The artist

Sir Martin Archer Shee

1769 – 1850

Quick facts

Room fitliving room
Top-ranked workWilliam Roscoe
Works on APS99
Museums on APSManchester Art Gallery, Museo del Prado, Walker Art Gallery, Royal Scottish Academy of Art - Architecture, Salford Museum - Art Gallery
Corpus themesreynolds influence, neoclassical ideals, british society, social status, british aristocracy
Color intensitymonochromatic, balanced
Topics exploredmen, portraiture, british art, portrait, royalty
Art periodEarly Modern

Biography

A Dubliner’s Ascent: The Life and Art of Sir Martin Archer Shee

Born in the vibrant city of Dublin on December 23rd, 1769, Sir Martin Archer Shee emerged as a pivotal figure in 19th-century British art. His journey was not simply that of a talented portraitist, but also of an administrator dedicated to shaping the artistic landscape of his time. Initially met with familial disapproval – his merchant father deemed painting an unsuitable profession for a man of their standing – young Martin’s passion proved unyielding. He began his studies at the Royal Dublin Society, laying the foundation for a career that would ultimately lead him to the heart of London's art world and the presidency of the Royal Academy. A crucial introduction by Edmund Burke in 1788 to Joshua Reynolds opened doors to the Royal Academy Schools, marking a turning point in Shee’s artistic development. Early works like “Head of an Old Man” and “Portrait of a Gentleman,” exhibited in 1789, signaled the arrival of a promising new talent, one poised to capture the essence of his era through brush and canvas.

The Brush and the Bureau: A Dual Path to Prominence

Shee’s career blossomed steadily throughout the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He quickly established himself as a sought-after portraitist, skillfully capturing the likenesses of prominent figures with an elegance and sensitivity that resonated deeply with his clientele. In 1798 he was elected an associate of the Royal Academy, a testament to his growing reputation, followed by full membership just two years later in 1800 – a remarkable ascent for an artist of his age. However, Shee’s ambitions extended beyond the purely artistic realm. He possessed a keen interest in the administration of the art world, believing that artists had a responsibility not only to create but also to shape the future of their discipline. This dedication culminated in his election as President of the Royal Academy in 1830, succeeding Sir Thomas Lawrence. For over two decades, he served as a powerful advocate for artists and a staunch defender of academic standards, guiding the institution through a period of significant change and ensuring its continued vitality. His presidency was characterized by stability and a commitment to fostering artistic excellence within Britain.

A Neoclassical Vision: Style and Subject Matter

While celebrated primarily as a portraitist, Shee’s *oeuvre* extended beyond capturing individual likenesses. He ventured into historical and literary subjects, demonstrating versatility and intellectual depth. Among his most renowned works are “Belisarius” (1826), a powerful depiction of the exiled Roman general that speaks to themes of injustice and resilience; portraits of Queen Victoria and King George IV – testaments to his status as a royal painter; and paintings inspired by classical literature, revealing a deep engagement with the intellectual currents of his time. His style is characterized by a refined neoclassical sensibility, influenced by Reynolds and other masters of the era. Shee’s portraits are notable for their meticulous detail, subtle modeling, and psychological insight. He possessed an ability to convey not just physical resemblance but also something of the sitter's character and inner life. His paintings weren’t merely representations; they were interpretations, imbued with a sense of dignity and grace.

Legacy and Lasting Influence

Sir Martin Archer Shee passed away on August 13th, 1850, in Brighton, leaving behind a legacy as both an accomplished artist and a dedicated administrator. He was buried in the western extension of St Nicholas’ Churchyard, though his headstone has since been moved to the perimeter of the site. His personal life was marked by a happy marriage to Mary Power, with whom he had six children – three sons who became successful barristers and three daughters. Interestingly, his descendant George Archer-Shee inspired Terence Rattigan's poignant play, “The Winslow Boy,” adding another layer to the family’s historical significance. Shee’s influence extended beyond his direct artistic output; as President of the Royal Academy, he played a crucial role in shaping the direction of British art during a period of significant change. He championed academic training while also acknowledging the importance of innovation and experimentation. His commitment to both tradition and progress helped to ensure the continued vitality of the British art scene. Today, his works are held in prestigious collections such as the Royal Academy of Arts, offering enduring glimpses into a bygone era and celebrating the talent of a remarkable artist who dedicated his life to the pursuit of beauty and the advancement of art.

Further Exploration

Explore more works by Sir Martin Archer Shee at: https://WahooArt.com/@/sir-martin-archer-shee
Discover the Royal Academy of Arts collection at: /en/art/show/art-d3cf6h-en/
Learn more about Shee’s life and works on Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/martin_archer_shee

His story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to both artistic excellence and institutional leadership.

Questions & Answers

What are the birthplace and birth year of Sir Martin Archer Shee?

Sir Martin Archer Shee was born in Dublin in 1769.

Can I study Sir Martin Archer Shee's use of color across all works?

The color profile of Sir Martin Archer Shee's work is shown on the artist's Palette Genome page.

Where are Sir Martin Archer Shee's artworks mapped by subject?

The Subject Atlas page maps Sir Martin Archer Shee's artworks by subject.

By the WahooArt.com Editorial Team Updated June 26, 2026

Collector's quiz

What was Sir Martin Archer Shee's primary profession?
Besides being an artist, what significant role did Shee hold for over two decades?
Which artistic style heavily influenced Sir Martin Archer Shee's work?
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In what city was Sir Martin Archer Shee born?

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

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