Arthur Phillip
- Artist: Francis Wheatley
- Date: 1786
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Dimensions: 35 1/2 in. x 27 1/4 in. (902 mm x 692 mm)
- Portrays: Arthur Phillip
- Museum: The National Portrait Gallery
- Collection record: The National Portrait Gallery website
Listen to the free audio guide
About this artwork
This is a portrait by Francis Wheatley painted in 1786, showing Admiral of the Blue Arthur Phillip standing on a shoreline. He wears his captain’s undress uniform: a dark coat with gold buttons, a tall hat, and polished brass cuffs that catch the light. His hand rests casually on his waistcoat, giving a relaxed pose as if he were stepping into the scene.
In the background, Wheatley has drawn the “First Fleet” of ships moving toward the shore – about 1,500 men and convicts that would start Britain’s first colony in Australia in 1788. The sails are spread, and the sea is calm, hinting at the voyage yet to come.
The artist chose oil on canvas for rich color and detail. Wheatley’s style captures Phillip’s naval confidence while setting up the narrative of exploration. The painting was likely made just before the expedition departed from England, giving it an anticipatory feel that ties the subject’s personal glory with the larger colonial adventure.
See it in person
Arthur Phillip is in the collection of The National Portrait Gallery at St Martin's Place, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
