This dramatically illustrated catalogue includes an incisive series of essays that explore portraiture in Europe and North America between 1770 and 1830. Leading experts discuss key works from the Enlightenment and revolutionary period, covering the major intellectual, political and social upheavals that took place. All of the artists featured - including Reynolds, Gainsborough, Lawrence, David, Ingres and Goya - contributed significantly to the changing presentation of the individual. From portrait busts of the Ancien Regime, to paintings of key philosophers, architects, writers and revolutionary figures, this challenging book will be a landmark in portraiture studies.