Oil on canvas (lined), inscribed to top right corner "James Harris, Esq. of Salisbury / Painted by Milner Newton," presented in an attractive period gilt frame.

Stretcher size 30 x 25 in.; Frame dimensions 39 1/2 x 35 in.

Francis Milner Newton was a British portrait painter and one of the founding members of the Royal Academy of Arts in London. Born in London, Newton studied painting in Italy, where he refined his skills before returning to England to establish his career. Though he primarily worked as a portrait artist, his output was relatively modest compared to some of his contemporaries. Newton played an important role in the development of the Royal Academy, serving as its first secretary from 1768 to 1788.

Surface grime and degraded varnish; scattered paint flakes.