Pair from Penshurst to be Researched
April 13 2026
Picture: BBC
Posted by Adam Busiakiewicz:
The BBC reported yesterday on a new research project to investigate the sitters featured in this early 17th century double portrait which is in the collection of Penshurst Place in Kent. The painting is apparently in the process of being restored, hence why we only have a rather rubbish grainy image of it for now.
According to the article:
One of the two teenage boys featured in the portrait is of African heritage, representing an very early full-length depiction of a black figure in English art.
The rare nature of the portrait has inspired a major research project with the National Portrait Gallery to identify both the boys.
The painting, which has been at Penshurst Place since at least 1743, will go on display at the gallery in London from September.
