The Turquoise Coat

Meticulously painted just as this prosperous-looking gentleman is meticulously turned out in his turquoise coat with an off-white collar, white waistcoat and frilled chemise. Even his wig has been powdered and carefully coiffured.

George Engleheart kept careful records of his sitters and the fee received for each commission. He painted a total of 4,853 portrait miniatures during his career with 1788 being his busiest year when he fulfilled 228 commissions. It is regrettable then when the identity of a sitter, as in this instance, has since been lost as it prevents his entry being traced within the fee book.

The portrait is set in a gilt metal frame with a gold border studded with seed pearls. The original brooch fitting on the reverse has been partially removed and replaced with a later ring.