THOMAS FRYE (IRISH 1710-1762) Portrait miniature of a Gentleman wearing red coat with green collar, hair en queue Signed lower left Watercolour on card Gold frame Oval, 30mm (1 1/4in) high The present work is a rare example of a miniature by the Dublin born artist Thomas Frye. After moving to London where he honed his skills, Frye became an artist of remarkable talent painting portraits in oils, black lead, pastel and miniatures in watercolour and enamel. He also became a well known mezzotint engraver. In 1736 he painted a full-length portrait of Frderick, Prince of Wales which attracted attention and brought him many patrons. He had an introduction to Sir Joshua Reynolds with whom he became friendly. After inventing a formula for porcelain and taking out a patent in 1744, he became manager of the groundbreaking Bow Porcelain Factory from 1744-1759.