Much has been written about the well-known eighteenth century actor, playwright and theatre manager David Garrick, depicted here in a character role, his powdered hair tied back with a black ribbon. Garrick (1717-1779) rose to fame with his performance of Richard III in 1741. He was a pupil and close friend of the writer Samuel Johnson.*A similar pencil profile of Garrick drawn ''from ye life'' and signed by Sherwin is held at the National Portrait Gallery. This was published as an engraving around 1774.*Set with a verre eglomisé mount, the portrait is presented in a traditional papier-mâché frame with a decorative surround.*The portrait is attributed to John Keyse Sherwin who was born in Chichester in 1751 to Francis and Martha Sherwin. Despite humble origins - his father was a labourer - Sherwin was sponsored to go up to London to study under master engraver Bartolozzi. He went on to exhibit portraits at the Royal Academy between 1774 and 1784. Despite success...