New British Additions in 2026

 

 Work in progress.

 

This was purchased from America, and originally thought to be a revival miniature of c.1900-20. The vendor description recorded that it was either on hand-painted on paper or a lithograph, and it was offered as unsigned, although dated 1918. ds 1533

 

 Although difficult to see, it appeared to be signed and then dated 1918 at lower left, almost under the frame. It is a little above average size for a miniature, and when it arrived, it was possible to confirm it was painted, and was signed "Annie G Fletcher RMS 1918".

Researching her, established she was a member of the Royal Miniature Society, and Foskett records;

Fletcher, Miss Annie G[ertrude?] (Mrs E.J.Houle (fl.1895-1914) Exhibited at the R.A.1805-1914, from various London addresses. Painted miniatures and portraits in oil. Exhibits included a portrait in oil of the late General Sir Michael Biddulph G.C.B., R.A., Black Rod; Mrs Mullens; and Miss Hilda Marion, and Arnold, children of W. Wolfe Fletcher Esq.

 The 1918 date is thus, slightly later than the dates earlier ascribed to her. 

 

--------------------------------------------------------- 

 An interesting group of British miniatures was acquired as a single lot. ds 1539 a, b, c.

 

 

The portrait of King George V is well painted, as is that of Queen Mary wearing her robes for the 21 June, 1911 coronation of George V.. In 1914, to show support for the troops fighting in Europe, George V was photographed in military uniform and sent, along with a message to the troops.

 The miniature here is very similar, but with one notable difference. In the official portrait he is not wearing a great-coat, whereas he is wearing a greatcoat in the miniature.

 

 The miniature is unsigned, but of excellent quality, by a good artist, so one wonders why it is different. So far, no other source image, has been noted of George wearing a greatcoat. 

 

The miniature of Queen Mary shows her at the time of receiving her crown, as in an image of the time; 

The miniature of Victoria and Albert is by an amateur hand, but despite that, with quite good detail.  

 ----------------------------------------