Benjamin Howdley, Bishop of Winchester, one of the most famous theologians of his time, was a friend and patron of Hogarth, the author of verse comments on his paintings. In 1701, Houdley married Sara Curti, an artist whom Hogarth might have taught.
It is believed that Sarah helped Hogarth when writing the portrait of her husband, now stored in the gallery of San Marino. As in the earlier picture, in this work Houdley is presented with his professional attributes – on his shoulder he has the cross of the Order of the Garter. In accordance with the spiritual dignity, Handley’s hand gesture is a gesture of blessing.
Related Paintings
Retrato del obispo Houdley – William Hogarth 
Portrait de l’évêque Howley – William Hogarth 
Portrait of Mary Edwards by William Hogarth 
Gates of Calais, or O, roast beef of old England by William Hogarth 
Portrait of William Cavendish, Marquise of Hartington by William Hogarth 
Portrait of actor Garrick and his wife by William Hogarth 
Self-portrait with a dog by William Hogarth 
Marriage a la Mode by William Hogarth