Major J. B. McCudden by William Orpen. A three-quarter length oil portrait of a young British military officer in a tan service dress uniform with various medal ribbons.

Major J. B. McCudden

William Orpen

1918 · Oil Paint, Canvas

A dignified and masterful 1918 portrait of a highly decorated British officer by renowned artist William Orpen.

$243

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From $129

6 frame sizes

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Where it works

A measured, grounding piece with softened warm notes — sits comfortably in a more formal setting.

Often works in
Library · Study · Office
Placement
Works well as a centered vertical note
Walls
Benefits from a wall with more tonal contrast
Color notes
Soft white, Olive green, Rich brown

About the piece

Painted in 1918 by Sir William Orpen, this striking oil portrait depicts Major J. B. McCudden, one of the most decorated pilots of the First World War. Orpen’s signature style is evident in the luminous treatment of the subject's face and the energetic brushwork of the uniform, capturing a sense of both formal dignity and immediate presence. The work stands as a classic example of early 20th-century British portraiture.

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