George Smart was a tailor in the village of Frant, near Tunbridge Wells, who made pictures out of leftover scraps of cloth. His work was popular and many people collected it, including Queen Victoria’s uncle, the Duke of Sussex. His pictures often depicted portraits of local figures, and this one is Mr. Bright the postman, known as‘Old Bright’. The watercolour background portrays a view of Frant church. In its original maple frame with the original legend on the reverse. English, circa 1820.

Ref: 'Comton Verney' Handbook' compiled by Dr Susan Jenkins, British folk Art. P.148.

Height: 31cm (12.25 inches)

Width: 25cm (10 inches)