Rediscovered George Romney Portrait of John Henderson as Macbeth Heads to Auction at The Potomack Company
This month, a George Romney portrait that has remained unseen for 51 years will be auctioned. Titled John Henderson in the Role of Macbeth and created around 1785, it is designated as Lot 3032 in The Potomack Company's English, European & American Fine Art auction set for September 24, 2026. The auction house states that recent catalog research connects this artwork to one of Romney's most significant theatrical portraits. The subject, John Henderson, was a renowned 18th-century actor famous for his portrayals in Shakespearean plays. He debuted in London in 1777 and became one of the city’s prominent performers, making this painting's return after decades particularly noteworthy.
Key facts
- George Romney painted John Henderson in the Role of Macbeth around 1785.
- The painting disappeared from view for more than half a century, specifically 51 years.
- It will be offered as Lot 3032 in The Potomack Company's English, European & American Fine Art auction.
- The auction is scheduled for September 24, 2026.
- Catalog research connects the work to one of Romney's most ambitious theatrical portraits.
- The sitter, John Henderson, was a celebrated 18th-century actor.
- Henderson was known for Shakespearean roles including Hamlet and Macbeth.
- Henderson made his London debut in 1777 and later became one of the capital's leading performers.
Entities
Artists
- George Romney
- John Henderson
- William Shakespeare
Institutions
- The Potomack Company
Locations
- London
- England
- United Kingdom