Charles Macklin
- Artist: John Bell
- Artist: Jean Condé
- Artist: John Opie
- Date: 1792
- Medium: stipple
- Dimensions: Long Term Loan
- Portrays: Charles Macklin
- Museum: The National Portrait Gallery
- Collection record: The National Portrait Gallery website
Listen to the free audio guide
About this artwork
This is a portrait of Charles Macklin, an actor‑manager and dramatist from the late 18th century. In the image he sits with a calm, direct gaze that invites you into his world of stagecraft. Notice the fine stipple technique—tiny dots of ink that give texture to his face and cloak while allowing subtle tonal shading without heavy brushwork.
The painting was made by John Opie, then turned into a print by Jean Condé in 1792, and published by John Bell. It shows Macklin’s typical costume: a simple black coat, a waistcoat, and the understated hat of a stage‑manager rather than a nobleman. The background is plain, keeping all focus on his expressive face.
Macklin was born around 1699, passed away in 1797, and appears in about fourteen portraits. He contributed to both acting and playwriting—an important figure in London theatre’s development during that era. This print captures him at the tail end of a prolific career, showing the calm dignity of an artist who shaped early English drama.
See it in person
Charles Macklin is in the collection of The National Portrait Gallery at St Martin's Place, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
