William Herschel (1738-1822)

Think that you may own a portrait of William Herschel? We authenticate, appraise, research and issue certificates of authenticity (COA) and provide consultations for all portraits of William Herschel.

There are two authentic portraits of Sir William Herschel in existence. Herschel was a German-born English astronomer. He discovered the planet Uranus, infrared radiation, and many other astronomical objects. Hershel is not to be confused with his son of the same name who was also an astronomer. He was born in 1738 and died in 1822.

Portrait #1, Lemuel Francis Abbot, 1785

Lemuel Francis Abbot painted Portrait #1 in 1785. Abbot (1760-1802) was a well-known English portrait painter.

Portrait #2, John Russell, 1795

Portrait #2 was painted by John Russell. This painting is dated 1795. Russell (1745-1806) was a respected English artist known for his portrait work.

It is likely that additional authentic portraits of Herschel exist. Still wondering about a portrait in your family collection? Contact us... it could be a portrait of William Herschel.