Studio of Charles Jervas (Irish, c. 1675-1739), Portrait of King George II

Oil on canvas (lined), unsigned, presented in an antique gilt frame with gallery plaque.

Stretcher size 56 1/4 x 46 1/2 in.; Frame dimensions 65 1/2 x 56 in.

The Estate of the late Dr. William "Bill" Webb Johnston and Mr. Charles "Chuck" Raymond West, Hillsborough, NC

Faint, stable craquelure; light surface grime; several patches to the verso with associated retouch on the recto; scattered chipping and flaking to frame.

Charles Jervas was an Irish portrait painter known for his work in the English court and his association with prominent literary and political figures of the early 18th century. Born in Ireland, he moved to London at a young age to study under the renowned portraitist Sir Godfrey Kneller. Jervas further honed his craft during a period of study in Italy before establishing himself as a leading portraitist in England. His elegant and refined style earned him prestigious commissions, and in 1723, he succeeded Kneller as the official painter to King George I and later to King George II.
This portrait is intended as a coronation portrait and features King George II in his garter robes, a scepter in his hand, the crown and orb on a draped table and a view of the north transept of Westminster Abbey through a window beyond. Other versions of this portrait are found at the Guildhall Art Gallery, London; the Old Council House, Bristol; the National Portrait Gallery, London; Lyme Park, Disley, Cheshire; and others.