Christian Frederick Zincke arrived in London from Dresden in 1706 and was already established as an enamellist at the Stuart court by the time of George I’s accession in 1714. As a German speaking miniaturist trained in his native country, where the relatively new art of enamelling was particularly strong, Zincke was perfectly placed to succeed with the Hanoverian monarchy.

The rich-colouring, attention to detail and meticulous finish of his work distinguished Zincke from his contemporaries and inspired the continuous and enthusiastic patronage of George II, Queen Caroline and Frederick, Prince of Wales. Through the zealous and constant practice of his art, supported by this royal patronage, Zincke brought enamel painting into the mainstream of the English portrait miniature tradition.