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Anthony Payne The Cornish Giant, Sir Godfrey Kneller, Baronet (1646-1723)
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Anthony Payne The Cornish Giant, Sir Godfrey Kneller, Baronet (1646-1723)
Oil on canvas, English School, 1680. Anthony Payne (circa 1612-1691), The Cornish Giant, was 7 foot, 4 inches tall. He was a yeoman of Stratton and was the personal retainer to Sir Bevill Grenville, a leading Royalist. He was present at the Battle of Lansdown (1643) when Sir Bevill was killed. This painting was commissioned by Charles II, probably as a gift to Sir Bevills son, John of Stowe in Kilkhampton parish. Anthony Payne is shown wearing the uniform of a Halberdier of the Guns of Plymouth Citadel. He died at Stratton, near Bude, in the same house he was born in. Born in Germany, Kneller became the leading portraitist in England during the late 17th and early 18th centuries
Royal Cornwall Museum is the UK's Greatest Museum For Cornish Life & Culture
TRURI : 1888.1
Media ID 18852221
© RIC
Artist Artwork Black Brown Portrait Soldier Cannonball Halberd Infantry Lansdowne Pike Second
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the remarkable portrait of Anthony Payne, famously known as The Cornish Giant. Painted by Sir Godfrey Kneller in 1680, this oil on canvas masterpiece is a testament to both the artistic talent of the English School and the extraordinary stature of Payne himself. Standing at an astonishing height of 7 foot, 4 inches, Anthony Payne was not only a giant in physicality but also in his role as a yeoman of Stratton and personal retainer to Sir Bevill Grenville, a prominent Royalist. This painting, commissioned by Charles II, is believed to have been intended as a gift for Sir Bevill's son John of Stowe in Kilkhampton parish. The portrait depicts Anthony Payne donning the uniform of a Halberdier from Plymouth Citadel's Guns. His imposing figure stands tall against the backdrop of cannons and cannonballs symbolizing warfare and strength. It serves as a poignant reminder that he was present during significant historical events such as the Battle of Lansdown in 1643 when Sir Bevill tragically lost his life. Sir Godfrey Kneller's expertise shines through every brushstroke capturing both Payne's larger-than-life presence and his loyalty to duty. Born in Germany but hailed as England's leading portraitist during the late 17th and early 18th centuries, Kneller immortalizes this iconic figure who passed away at Stratton - his birthplace - leaving behind an indelible mark on history.
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