John Simpson (1811-after 1871), a rectangular portrait miniature titled 'The Young Student', dated 1854, enamel on copper, and signed 'J. Simpson' to the reverse in puce, 6.2cm high

John Simpson trained as a porcelain painter at the Derby porcelain factory before moving to London in 1845. He soon established a practice as a miniature painter specialising in works on enamel and fulfilled the first of many commissions for Queen Victoria that year. He is last recorded describing himself at the end of his career as a 'photographic artist' in the 1871 census.

Condition Report

Some brown discolouration visible to the rear, possibly a small piece of fabric? Some shrinkage to the enamel also visible to the reverse. One chip to the right hand centre long edge and one short scratch to the painted enamel forming part of the background. Otherwise good with no cracks or further chips

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