Lot 43: Charles Boit (Swedish, 1663-1727), after Johan van Diest (active 1718-1736) Field Marshall George Wade (1673-1748), wearing coat, breast plate armour, frilled chemise and stock, the ends of his powdered wig knotted

Field Marshall George Wade (1673-1748), wearing coat, breast plate armour, frilled chemise and stock, the ends of his powdered wig knotted.
Plumbago, signed on the reverse General Wade/ CB. Fecit., turned pearwood frame.
Oval, 84mm (3 5/16in) high

Wade was born in Kilavally, Ireland. He was a professional soldier, beginning his career in the Earl of Bath's Regiment in 1690. He steadily rose through the ranks while serving during the Nine Years' War (1688–1697), the Spanish Succession (1702–1713) and the Jacobite risings (1688-1746). He also entered politics as a Member of Parliament for Hindon between 1715 and 1722 and then for Bath between 1722 and 1747.

Wade was sent to inspect Scotland in 1724, where his recommendations led to his appointment as Commander in Chief of His Majesty's forces, castles, forts and barracks in North Britain. He also supported the Foundling Hospital in London, acting as a founding governor in 1739. In 1743 Wade became a Field Marshal and in 1745, Commander-in-Chief in England.