This book investigates the evolution and significance of British portraiture from the Restoration period to the mid-20th century. Brian Allen, a recognized authority in the field, draws upon extensive archival research and art historical analysis to present a comprehensive overview of the genre's development. The work examines the social, cultural, and artistic contexts that shaped portrait painting in Britain, highlighting key artists, patrons, and stylistic shifts across three centuries.

This volume is recognized as a significant contribution to the study of British art history, particularly within the field of portraiture. Art historians and critics have noted its thorough research and detailed examination of the subject matter. The book is considered a valuable resource for understanding the development of portrait painting in Britain over a crucial three-hundred-year span.