This miniature is a copy by Henry Bone (1755-1834) of Sir William Beechey's portrait of the king in the Royal Collection (RCIN 405422). George III is wearing general officer's uniform with the star of the Order of the Garter. The portrait was extremely popular and well-known through engravings and copies, mostly of the head of the king.

Bone was born in Truro in Cornwall, the son of a woodcarver and cabinet maker, and began his artistic career painting on china for local manufacturers. In about 1779, he moved to London, where he became established as one of the most outstanding enamellists of his day. His children and grandchildren also became miniaturists. He painted designs for lockets, watches and jewellery. He was principally a copyist and his large-scale enamels were based on paintings by Old Masters and leading contemporary artists. He exhibited over 240 items at the Royal Academy between 1781 and 1832, when his eyesight began to fail. He was appointed enamel painter to the future George IV in 1801, before holding the same position to George III from 1809, and later George IV and William IV. Bone could obtain top prices for his work – in 1811 he received 2,200 guineas for his framed Bacchus and Ariadne. He was described by a contemporary as a 'worthy, kind, liberal and affectionate man'.

Signed on the lower left HBone, and inscribed by the artist on the reverse in purple paint: His most Gracious / Majesty / Painted August 1801 by / Henry Bone for H.R.H. / the Princess Augusta.

This miniature is paired with an enamel of Queen Charlotte by Henry Bone (RCIN 421852)? (421672?) in a gilt frame (RCIN 421673), with the inscription beneath, 'THE GIFT of HER MAJESTY to Sir HARRY NEALE / at Weymouth Sepr 27 1801.'