Portrait of a Lady

Zincke was a Dresden-born enamel miniaturist who became the most sought-after portrait painter in London society during the reign of George II. His enamel technique on copper produced jewel-like portraits prized for their durability and vivid color, qualities that made them ideal gifts among the aristocracy. By the 1730s his waiting list stretched years, and sitters paid premium prices for his work.

The enamel-on-copper technique demanded multiple firings at precise temperatures, each layer of vitreous color fused permanently to the surface. Fine brushwork in the lace and hair demonstrates Zincke's mastery of detail at miniature scale.