'John Smart – A Genius Magnified' at Philip Mould and Co this November

The most important private collection of portraits by John Smart, the greatest miniature painter in 18th century Britain, comprising 45 works will be exhibited for the first time by Philip Mould and Co.

Painstakingly amassed over nearly 30 years by a Private European Collector who admired Smart for his precision and technical skill, the collection represents the most comprehensive body of a leading Georgian artist's work possible to acquire on the open market today, and is the first time the collection will be publicly displayed. In addition there is the added bonus of the potential repatriation of these important gems, particularly as few have found their way into public collections.

Highlights from the collection include a dashing miniature of Richard Twining (1749-1824) from the famous tea dynasty, wearing a cobalt blue coat, his waistcoat embroidered with flowers and gold thread, lace cravat, his powdered hair worn 'en queue'. Furthermore, John Smart was a diligent, hardworking artist who chiefly depicted the wealthy merchant classes. This took him to India in 1785 where he spent ten years working there with employees of the East India Company. Alongside the body of portrait miniatures from his period in India where he enjoyed a constant flow of commissions, Smart produced a small number of sketches of Indian subjects during his time in Madras. These drawings are particularly rare and desirable.

To pre-order the exhibition catalogue (at a reduced price of £8, full price £10) please contact the gallery on 0207 499 6818 or email [email protected]