History - Family Portraits
Henry, seventh Viscount Irwin (1691-1761) and his wife Anne (nee Scarburgh) (c1699-1766) by Philip Mercier (1689-1760), 97½ X 84½ (247.5 X 214.5)
This painting is one of at least four portraits commissioned by the family from the French artist Philip
Mercier who was then working in York. In 1750 it was recorded as hanging on the south wall of the Gallery,
balancing the other great double portrait of Henry's brother Rich, fifth Viscount and his wife. Clearly it
was commissioned as a pendant to the earlier picture.
Henry was the fourth son of Arthur, third Viscount Irwin. Before succeeding his brother Arthur, sixth
Viscount in 1736 he was MP for the family's pocket borough of Horsham. Despite the severe financial limitations
caused by his elder brother's reckless investments Henry succeeded in remodelling the west and north wings at
Temple Newsam creating new bedrooms and dressing rooms, as well as the picture gallery and library.
Temple Newsam 22.115/48
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