Roy Precious - Antiques & Fine Art has dated this piece to the 18th Century.
Signed and dated 1730, lower left. Later inscription 'Mr. Grenaway'.
This excellent portrait is typical of the best work of Heins. The sitter is William Grenaway, (Greenaway) 1681-1756. He was an attorney and a member of the wealthy mercantile and professional classes of Norwich and surrounding area; Heins was their chosen artist, he made a good living and had been accepted into their social circle.
This portrait of William, aged 49, conforms precisely with the above.
The National Portrait Gallery has, in its collection, a mezzotint of this portrait, engraved by Heins. (NPG D2499).
JOHN THEODORE HEINS (1697-1756), also known as Dietrich or Dirk, was born in Germany. He settled in Norwich (at that time a city second in importance only to London) in 1720.
He made a good living painting the local prosperous merchants and gentry and was accepted into their social circle. His style was influenced by that of Thomas Hudson.
Many of his finer works were commissioned by the Astley family of Melton Constable.
Heins died in Norich and his will was proved 30 August 1756 by his widow, Abigail.
His son, also called John Theodore Heins was also a portraitist but lacked his father's talent.
Heins senior's work is in Norwich Castle Museum, Felbrigg Hall (National Trust), the National Portrait Gallery, Cambridge University and others.
SIZE: 34.5 x 29.5 inches including the frame.
PROVENANCE: Old collection, a Norfolk country house.
Roy Precious - Antiques & Fine Art has dated this piece to the 18th Century.
Roy and nadine precious: specialists in portraiture from the 16th to the 20th century. Established in 1972.
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Portrait of William Grenaway 1730, by John Theodore Heins.
