Iconic Turner Portrait Misattributed?

A renowned biographer of JMW Turner has put forward compelling evidence suggesting that a famous self-portrait of the artist, which appears on the £20 banknote, is not by Turner at all. Dr. James Hamilton, a noted expert, believes the painting, dated around 1799, is more likely the work of fellow Romantic artist John Opie.

Hamilton's research indicates the portrait was misattributed after being included in the Turner Bequest following the artist's death in 1851. He argues that due to its high quality and the circumstances of the bequest's handling, the painting was erroneously assigned to Turner.

Stylistic analysis and comparisons with Opie's known works, such as a portrait of an unidentified young man, highlight similarities in technique and subject portrayal. Hamilton has called on Tate Britain to officially reattribute the artwork to Opie, an institution that currently holds the painting.

While the Turner Society acknowledges Hamilton's extensive research and the plausibility of his claims, they note the potential legal complexities. Tate has stated they welcome the new research and will examine Hamilton's findings further, acknowledging the historical significance of the portrait.