George Gordon Byron (1788–1824), 6th Baron Byron, Poet

Thomas Phillips painted Lord Byron in 1813, creating the Albanian dress portrait that became the definitive image of the Romantic poet. Byron had acquired the costume during his Grand Tour of 1809-1811, and wearing it for his portrait was part of his deliberate self-construction as a Romantic adventurer. This particular version is one of several Phillips made; the image was widely copied and engraved, making it the most recognizable face of British Romanticism.

Phillips renders the exotic Albanian costume with rich, jewel-like colors that enhance Byron's dark, handsome features. The dramatic combination of Eastern dress and Romantic intensity creates an iconic image that transcends conventional portraiture.