This enigmatic masterpiece brings together two passions of early Georgian collecting: biographical interest and consummate handling of paint. It certainly depicts the loyal Cavalier poet, Thomas Killigrew, and was believed to show him in conversation with another poet, Thomas Carew (1595 – 1640). The real identity of the companion and meaning of their conversation remain obscure, but must concern mourning for Killigrew’s recently deceased wife, Cecilia. Acquired by Frederick, Prince of Wales Cat. 140