Lot 121: James Holmes Junior (British, active 1836-1859) Charles Perceval, wearing the uniform of an Officer of the Austrian Cavalry, dark blue-green coat with gold lace, aiguillette, fur cloak and black cross belt

Charles Perceval, wearing the uniform of an Officer of the Austrian Cavalry, dark blue-green coat with gold lace, aiguillette, fur cloak and black cross belt.
Gold frame.
Oval, 65mm (2 9/16in) high

The sitter was a grandson of politician Spencer Perceval who, in 1812, claimed the dubious honour of being the only British Prime Minister to be assassinated whilst in office. His father, Michael Henry Perceval, was appointed Inspector of Customs in Quebec in July, 1810. During the Anglo-American War of 1812, he served as staff officer and provincial aide-de-camp to George Prevost. In May 1813, he became a magistrate with jurisdiction over the province and, in March 1817, Police Chief in Charge. Michael married Anne Mary Flower, daughter of Sir Charles Flower, Lord Mayor of London, and the pair had numerous children, many of whom were painted by Holmes.