George III (1738-1820) is wearing Windsor uniform and the ribbon and star of the Order of the Garter. This miniature is a copy of the head of the King from Thomas Gainsborough's full-length portrait in the Royal Collection (RCIN 401406), exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1781. As the miniature is dated 1781 on the back, it is one of the first miniature copies of this very popular portrait. Copies were often given as gifts from the King or Queen.

The artist, Freiherr (Baron) Johann Heinrich von Hurter (1734-99), was born in Schaffhausen in Switzerland, settled in London about 1777 and exhibited at the Royal Academy from 1779 to 1781. He founded a factory for mathematical and other instruments and in later life split his time between London and Germany.

Inscribed by the artist on the enamel reverse in purple paint: George III. / King of Great Britain / from the original picture by / Gainsborough. / J.H. Hurter pinxit / 1781.