This portrait of Princess Augusta is a copy of the princess' head from Sir William Beechey's portrait painted for the prince of Wales and exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1797 (RCIN 403416).

Princess Augusta (1768-1840) was one of the six daughters of George III (1738–1820) and Queen Charlotte (1744–1818). She remained unmarried and lived into the reign of her niece, Queen Victoria, who spoke affectionately of her. She died at Clarence House, St James's, on 22 September 1840.

The identity of the artist is unknown but it has been suggested that it may be Lady Beechey (1764-1833/4). Lady Beechey was the second wife of Sir William. She exhibited at the Royal Academy under her maiden name, Miss Anne Phyllis Jessop, in 1787, and under her married name from 1795 to 1805.

The miniature is enclosed in its original locket engraved on the front with the initials AS and on the back 1799, both in circular cartouches (scrolls) surrounded by a love knot. A card that was originally with the locket is inscribed: Her Royal Highness / Princess Augusta / daughter of George III / married Sir Brent Spencer / 1799, and also: Miniature (taken from the neck of Sir Brent Spencer / after death) of H.R.H. Princess / Augusta, daughter of George III / whom he married in 1799.