William Frederick, Duke of Gloucester, 1776-1834 as a child, full length with hat and cane
Description:
William Frederick Hanover (1776-1834) was the son of Maria, Duchess of Gloucester (1736-1807), and her second husband William Hanover, Duke of Gloucester and Edinburgh (1743-1805). He was a great-grandson of King George II and nephew of King George III., Formerly attributed to George Engleheart (1750-1829). Signature found on verso of miniature when unframed for conservation work in February 2006: Sam. Shelley pinx / King Street / No 16. / Covent Garden., Painted after a portrait of Prince William Frederick, 1780, by Sir Joshua Reynolds, in the collection of Trinity College, University of Cambridge (Mannings, D. Sir Joshua Reynolds, number 1905)., Wooden frame back made of oak with smooth ebony surface veneer, gilt metal bezel, crown, and shooting star hanger. Engraved paper label on verso of frame: C. Salmon / Carver Gilder / & Frame Maker / to their / Royal Highnesses the / Prince of Wales & the / Dukes of York and Clarenden / Marshal Street / Golden Square / London., Note in the hand of Eleanor Forester on paper tag applied to verso: Aged 4 years. H. R. H. William Frederick, 2nd Duke of Gloucester 1776-1834 copied from a painting by Sir Joshua Reynolds, canvas 53 1/2 x 38 1/2 inches, which was bequeathed by his sister, Princess Sophia Matilda of Gloucester 1844. This Duke was admitted to Trinity College as a nobleman in 1787 aged twelve! Received M.A. degree in 1790, 2nd 1811. He became Chancellor of the University., and For further provenance information, see the custodial history note in the Guide to the Sir Edward Walpole and Dorothy Clement Family Papers (LWL MSS 37).
