The head in this portrait miniature derives from Sir Godfrey Kneller's state portrait of 1716 (RCIN 404389; Royal Collection) in which the Prince is shown full-length, in robes of state. The artist, Christian Frederick Zincke (1683/4-1767), was born in Dresden, the son of a goldsmith. He settled in England in 1706 and studied enamel painting under Charles Boit. He developed a thriving business, at first copying portraits by Sir Peter Lely and Sir Godfrey Kneller, then painting from life. He worked extensively for the royal family and, perhaps because he spoke German, was one of the few artists George II could tolerate. By 1730 he was well established at court and in February 1732, was appointed Cabinet Painter to Frederick, Prince of Wales, George II's eldest son. His eyesight began to fail, however, and he lamented: 'I find my Eyes scarce Capable of seeing them fine strokes'. By 1752 he had retired and only painted for his own pleasure.

George II was the son of George, Elector of Hanover, later George I, and Sophia Dorothea of Brunswick-Celle. When his father was proclaimed King of Great Britain and Ireland, George accompanied him to England, landing at Greenwich on 18 September 1714, and four days later he was created Prince of Wales. George did not enjoy 'setting' for portraiture, preferring the military life to art and artists. Here he is depicted in armour, wearing the ribbon of the Order of the Garter. He was the last British sovereign to fight alongside his soldiers – at the battle of Dettingen in 1743 in Germany – when he was 60 years old.

Signed and dated in black paint on the reverse: C F Zincke fecit / 1717, initials in monogram.