Sir Joshua Reynolds gets a garland - again!

When the Summer Exhibition is open at the Royal Academy of Arts, the statue of Sir Joshua Reynolds which stands in the courtyard of Burlington House is adorned with a garland.

Sir Joshua Reynolds (1723 - 1792) was one of the founders of the Royal Academy of Arts and its first President.  Garlands were apparently a feature of many of his portraits and I guess there's probably a connection. He's also holding a palette and brush in his hand.  You can see his works of art in the RA's permanent collection.

Sir Joshua Reynolds - and garland
from Burlington House Terrace
Pen and sepia ink in Moleskine Sketchbook
copyright Katherine Tyrrell

This is what he looked like from the other side two years ago when I took a photo of him.

Sir Joshua Reynolds plus garland, brush and palette
Courtyard of Burlington House, Piccadilly
copyright Katherine Tyrrell

I was sat looking out at him under the very nice tent which is erected at the front of Burlington House so people visiting the exhibitions can drink tea - as I was - and not get wet in the summer showers.  Or even enjoy some shade should the sun ever come out!

You can read my review of this year's Summer Exhibition over on Making A Mark - see Review: 244th Summer Exhibition at the Royal Academy.

What is a well-chosen collection of pictures, but walls hung round with thoughts?Sir Joshua Reynolds