This tiny portrait of the founder of the Holburne Museum was painted on a thin sheet of elephant ivory in 1827. Portrait miniatures were one of the many luxuries for sale in Georgian Bath, and artists came here from all over Europe. This magnificent example was made soon after young Sir William Holburne had come into his inheritance. It cost him thirty guineas, an enormous sum for a miniature.
Most of the content on A History of the World is created by the contributors, who are the museums and members of the public. The views expressed are theirs and unless specifically stated are not those of the 91Èȱ¬ or the British Museum. The 91Èȱ¬ is not responsible for the content of any external sites referenced. In the event that you consider anything on this page to be in breach of the site’s House Rules please Flag This Object.
Share this link: