Studio of John Riley 1646-1691

half length, wearing black academic robes

Dr Richard Busby was arguably the most memorable of Headmasters of Westminster School.  He was Headmaster there for over fifty years between the 1630's and the 1680's.  During that time he had a ferocious reputation as the most austere disciplinarian, and it is said that during his lengthy tenure only one boy passed through the school without being beaten personally by him.  Sir Christopher Wren, a former pupil, became a personal friend of his.  There is to this day in Westminster School a house named after him.   It appears that the original of this portrait, by John Riley, has been lost, but various studio versions exist.