About Nelly O'Brien
Nelly O'Brien was an actor, courtesan and art model.
Nelly O'Brien (c. 1739 – 1768) was a courtesan, best known for having been painted by the artist Sir Joshua Reynolds. She is not to be confused with the later Irish artist Nelly O'Brien.
Little is known of her early life or her family background. She was an actress before becoming a courtesan, and for some time may have been the mistress of Augustus Keppel, who introduced her to Reynolds. and Hunterian Museum.
Her cause of death is unknown. A record in the burial register for St Ann's, Blackfriars – dated December 29, 1767 and stating "Eleanor O'Brien, aged 29" – may refer to her.
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Important facts
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Frequently asked questions
Who was Nelly O'Brien?
model for Sir Joshua Reynolds paintings
When did Nelly O'Brien die?
Nelly O'Brien died in 1768.
What was Nelly O'Brien's occupation?
Nelly O'Brien was an actor, courtesan and art model.
Sources & further reading
· DBpedia: Nelly O'Brien (courtesan)
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Nelly O'Brien. https://biography.guide/nelly-o-brien-actor/
MLA: "Nelly O'Brien." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/nelly-o-brien-actor/.
Chicago: "Nelly O'Brien." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/nelly-o-brien-actor/.
Data last updated: 2026-09-26 · Spot an error? Report a correction.
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