Anton Graff, Detmar Friedrich Wilhelm Basse, c. 1782, NGA 110806

Anton Graff was a Swiss portraitist renowned for his exceptional ability to capture the likeness and character of his subjects. Born on 18 November 1736 in Winterthur, Switzerland, Graff's talent as a portraitist was recognised early in his career. He trained in Zurich and later travelled extensively throughout Europe, gaining recognition and commissions from prominent figures. Graff's portraits are characterised by their realistic and detailed rendering, demonstrating his mastery of capturing facial expressions and nuances of personality. He was particularly sought after by the European aristocracy and bourgeoisie, painting portraits of royalty, politicians, scholars and artists. Throughout his career, Graff's style evolved to reflect the changing artistic trends of his time. Initially influenced by the late Baroque and Rococo styles, he later adopted elements of Neoclassicism. Despite his versatility, Graff maintained a distinctive approach that emphasised psychological depth and naturalism in his portraits. His works are celebrated for their technical brilliance and sensitivity, earning him a lasting legacy as one of the most accomplished portrait painters of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Anton Graff died in Dresden on 22 June 1813.