Princess Amelia (1783-1810) Inscribed 1811
Enamel | 7.1 x 6.0 cm (support, canvas/panel/stretcher external) | RCIN 421928
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This miniature is a copy by Henry Bone (1755-1834) of a miniature of Princess Amelia by Andrew Robertson (RCIN 420224). It was bought by the sitter's brother, George IV, when Prince Regent.
Bone was born in Truro in Cornwall, the son of a woodcarver and cabinet maker, and began his artistic career painting on china for local manufacturers. In about 1779, he moved to London, where he became established as one of the most outstanding enamellists of his day. His children and grandchildren also became miniaturists. He painted designs for lockets, watches and jewellery. He was principally a copyist and his large-scale enamels were based on paintings by Old Masters and leading contemporary artists. He exhibited over 240 items at the Royal Academy between 1781 and 1832, when his eyesight began to fail. He was appointed enamel painter to the future George IV in 1801, before holding the same position to George III from 1809, and later George IV and William IV. Bone could obtain top prices for his work – in 1811 he received 2,200 guineas for his framed Bacchus and Ariadne. He was described by a contemporary as a ‘worthy, kind, liberal and affectionate man’.The miniature is signed on the lower right HBone and inscribed by the artist on the reverse: Her R.H. the late / Princess Amelia, / London April 1811 / Painted by Henry Bone R.A. / Enamel painter to His / Majesty and to His R.H. / the Prince Regent / after a Miniature by / -- Robbertson –
Provenance
Bought by George IV when Prince Regent and listed in the Bone accounts for January and April 1811: 'two enamels on gold of H.R.H. the Princess Amelia, £42.0.0.each' (RA GEO 27641).
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Creator(s)
Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Enamel
Measurements
7.1 x 6.0 cm (support, canvas/panel/stretcher external)
6.6 x 5.5 cm (sight)
8.6 x 7.5 cm (frame, external)
Category
Object type(s)