Objects of Affection - Pre-Raphaelite portraits now on display

A new exhibition opening today at the Fitzwilliam examines a less familiar aspect of the work of artist John Brett (1831-1902).

Best known for his luminous Pre-Raphaelite landscape paintings The Stonebreaker and Val d'Aosta, and his late depictions of the coasts of the British Isles, John Brett also produced fine portraits of family, friends, lovers and patrons - works that have not achieved the fame of his landscapes. Objects of Affection: Pre-Raphaelite Portraits by John Brett (until 28 November 2010) now present a fascinating selection of paintings and drawings celebrating his meticulous and delicate portrait style, and invites us into his intimate domestic world, as well as the artistic and literary circles he frequented. Examples of his portrait photography - a medium in which Brett was an enthusiastic pioneer - will also be on display, alongside archival material.

The exhibition draws extensively from private collections, with key loans from the British Museum, the National Portrait Gallery and Tate Britain. Image: John Brett, Frances Martineau © Private Collection

14 September 2010