John Smart

wearing a white surplice, black gown with white tabs, and the badge of the Most Honorable Order of the Bath, gold frame, blue glass reverse

Anonymous sale in these Rooms, 26 June 1978, lot 92

Ivory ground. The miniature is in good condition, save slight surface dust.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Joseph Wilcocks was the son of a physician from Bristol. He was educated at Magdalen College, Oxford where he became a Doctor of Divinity in 1709. After graduating, he travelled to Portugal where he became chaplain to the English factory in Lisbon and to the English embassy. On his return to England he was appointed chaplain-in-ordinary to George I and preceptor to the daughters of the Prince of Wales. In 1721 he was consecrated Bishop of Gloucester and in 1731 he was installed as Dean of Westminster. On the same day he was also nominated Bishop of Rochester. He was a conscientious diocesan, who refused further promotion, even declining the Archbishopric of York.

John Smart's portrait, painted 23 years after the sitter's death, was probably a copy taken after a painting by Enoch Seeman. This portrait was engraved by John Simon in 1721. It was re-issued in 1731 showing Wilcocks with the Order of the Bath, a dignity he received that year upon his appointment as Dean of Westminster (see N.P.G. D83248, D4788)