Sir Thomas Lestrange

This stipple engraving is based on one of 84 original portrait drawings in the Royal Collection, Windsor Castle, by the great 16th century Anglo-German court artist Hans Holbein, whose status has remained high through the centuries. In turn, the engraver, Francesco Bartolozzi, was technically unrivalled in later 18th century Britain and was a foundation member of the Royal Academy. The original edition was published by John Chamberlaine, London, in 1793.

Sir Thomas Lestrange (called "Tho. Strange Knight" in the original inscription), was a wealthy Norfolk landowner. His early arranged marriage to Anne Vaux (a descendant of John of Gaunt) proved fruitful, with 16 children.

Dr Mark Stocker         Curator, Historical International Art             February 2017