Johann Zoffany

Johann Zoffany was a master of the conversation piece, informal group portraits where the sitters are caught in a moment of their daily life, among their furniture, pets and collections. He also painted famous actors on stage, especially David Garrick.

He was born near Frankfurt, trained in Germany and Rome, and moved to London in 1760. He became a founder member of the Royal Academy in 1768 and was a favourite of George III and Queen Charlotte. His Tribuna of the Uffizi, painted for the queen, shows the famous gallery crowded with art and visitors. He spent six years in India in the 1780s, painting British officials and Indian courts.

Charles Towneley in his Sculpture Gallery shows the collector surrounded by his ancient marbles. Look for the crowded detail and the easy poses.