Charles Howard Hodges was a notable English painter, born in London in 1764. He was especially well-regarded for his work as a portraitist. Hodges moved to Amsterdam in the Netherlands in 1792, which became his primary base of operations for the remainder of his career.
In Amsterdam, Hodges established himself as a talented artist, drawing the attention of Dutch high society. He became particularly known for his pastel portraits, although he was also skilled in oil painting and engraving. Hodges' style was influenced by the prominent artists of the time, and he was adept at capturing the elegance and character of his subjects.
Among Hodges' notable works are portraits of members of the Dutch royal family and other significant figures of the period. His portraits were appreciated for their sophistication and the way they reflected the status and personality of his sitters.
During the French occupation of the Netherlands, Hodges' reputation afforded him considerable status, and he received commissions from Louis Bonaparte, who was then the King of Holland. However, after the fall of Bonaparte, Hodges' popularity waned, and he faced financial difficulties in the later part of his life.
Charles Howard Hodges continued to work until his death in Amsterdam in 1837. Despite the decline in his commercial success towards the end of his life, his contributions to the art of portraiture were significant, and his works remain a testament to his skill as an artist. Today, his paintings can be found in various art collections and museums, where they continue to be studied and admired.