Henry Bone (1755-1834)

• Was an English enamel painter.
• Bone who was officially employed by three successive monarchs, George III, George IV and William IV.
• In his early career he worked as a porcelain and jewelry painter. • He was elected a Royal Academician and produced the largest enamel paintings ever seen up to that time.
• In 1789, he exhibited "A Muse and Cupid", the largest enamel painting ever executed up to that time.
• In 1800 he was appointed enamel painter to the Prince of Wales.
• On 15 April 1811 he was elected a royal academician.
• The picture was sold to Mr. G. Bowles of Cavendish Square for 2,200 guineas, the sum of which was paid by a cheque drawn on Fauntleroy's Bank.
• Bone cashed the cheque on his way home, just in time, as the next day financial difficulties caused the bank to suspend payments!
• He is said to have been "a man of unaffected modesty and generosity; friendship and integrity adorned his private life".
• Francis Chantrey carved a bust of him, and John Opie, John Jackson, and George Harlow all painted his portrait.
• Richard Dagley was a friend.
• Next