Sir James Hodges

1761–1764

Rising fees: 80 and 100 guineas

By 1761 Reynolds can command a fee of 80 guineas for a full-length portrait; in 1764 he is paid 100 guineas for a portrait of Lord Burghersh.

1763

A literary society with Johnson and Goldsmith

In 1763 Reynolds, together with Samuel Johnson, Oliver Goldsmith and others, founds a literary society.

1764

The founding of “The Club”

In 1764 Reynolds brings together 'The Club': its original members include Burke, Bennet Langton, Topham Beauclerk, Goldsmith, Anthony Chamier, Thomas Hawkins and Christopher Nugent, later joined by Garrick, Boswell and Sheridan. The Club meets every Monday evening for supper and conversation at the Turk's Head at 9 Gerrard Street, continuing into the early hours of Tuesday; within ten years its membership rises to 35.

c. 1765

A Black servant in Reynolds's household

Around the mid-1760s a Black servant joins Reynolds's household; his name is unknown.