Georg Wilhelm LaFontaine or G. Fountaine (1680-1745) - SOLD

George I (1660-1727)
Inscribed by the artist George King of Gt Britain, drawn from life , 62nd year of his age, 1727 by G Fountaine

223cm x 149cm / 296cm × 163 cm, Oil on Canvas

Provenance

Ex. Hyder Collection. 

SOLD

A rare and substantial life size portrait of George I, painted in the year of his death and most notably inscribed by the artist as being painted directly from life. The original commissioned portrait of George I was to Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646-1723), and thereafter copies of the official portrait were made by Studio of, attributed to Kneller or by named artists but 'after' Kneller. Hence this painting is of particular interest, firstly for this inscription, secondly because it carries a notice on the reverse that reads:  

"George I, painted from life by G. Fountaine 1727, presented by the monarch to John Sparrow, Bailiff of Ipswich in return for attentions received during his visit to Ipswich from Mr Sparrow, and the presentation of a huge sweet cake called Marchpane" (John Wodderspoon - Memories of the ancient town of Ipswich 1850, page 33)

The family tradition is that the picture was presented to the Sparrow family by the King himself with a venison pasty. (Mrs J C Marshman 5/8/1952)

Thirdly and finally this painting is notable as it was originally held in the Hyder Collection and the stunning frame with its Gold Crown atop, is similar to those of various paintings at Hampton Court Palace, where this portrait, is thought to have come from prior to being held in the Hyder Collection. 

Georg Wilhelm LaFontaine or Fountaine, was a Hanovarian Court painter.

SOLD