Oil Portrait General John Lambert in Armour New Model Army Commander C1840

19th Century Oil Painting General John Lambert in Armour, New Model Army Commander Portrait in Armour (1619–1684) Mid-19th Century English School, after Robert Walker Composition & Technique This commanding mid-19th century c.1840 oil on panel portrait depicts General John Lambert in bust-length, framed within a painted oval cartouche. He wears a polished steel cuirass enriched with gilt trim and a finely rendered lace cravat. The work closely follows Robert Walker’s 17th-century prototype, executed in the manner of Walker and reflecting the Victorian fascination with the heroic figures of the English Civil War. Bold contrasts and crisp highlights—hallmarks of revivalist portraiture—heighten the sitter’s martial gravitas. About the Sitter General John Lambert (1619–1684) was among the most brilliant commanders of the New Model Army. He distinguished himself at Marston Moor (1644) and proved decisive at Preston (1648). A gifted statesman as well as soldier, Lambert drafted the Instrument of Government (1653)—the first written constitution in British history. Though offered supreme power, Lambert declined, remaining loyal to the Commonwealth. After Cromwell’s death he sought to preserve the republic, but with the Restoration he was imprisoned for the last 24 years of his life, dying on Guernsey in 1684. Admired even by enemies, Lambert endures as a figure of integrity, intellect, and tragic downfall. About the Artist The original likeness derives from Robert Walker (d. 1658), Cromwell’s favored portraitist and principal artistic chronicler of the Commonwealth. Walker’s portraits of Cromwell, Fairfax, Ireton, and Lambert defined how history visualizes these leaders. This Victorian interpretation reflects the 19th-century revival of Civil War subjects, when collectors inspired by writers such as Thomas Carlyle sought faithful recreations of Walker’s iconic sitters. Signed Unsigned, as typical for English school 19th-century works after Old Master prototypes. Frame Recently reframed to museum standards in a premium Larson-Juhl “Essentials” gilt moulding (Ref. 793246000) and fitted with AR70 museum-grade anti-reflective glass for crystal clarity and UV protection. This collector-level presentation ensures both display impact and long-term conservation. Size Frame dimensions: 27 cm high × 24.5 cm wide × 1.5 cm depth Provenance From notable long-established northern auctioneers (founded in the 1840s). The original frame, inscribed on the reverse “Harrods 79,” is preserved and can be included if desired. This likely references an earlier exhibition, framing, or sale through Harrods Fine Art Department, London. Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD with a museum exhibition label verso. Why You’ll Love It Rare Subject: Portraits of Lambert are scarcer than those of Cromwell or Fairfax. Prestigious Lineage: Directly after Robert Walker, Cromwell’s court portraitist. Collector-Grade Presentation: Newly reframed with Larson-Juhl moulding and AR70 glazing. Conversation Piece: A vivid window into England’s only experiment with republican rule. Victorian Grandeur: Reflects the 19th-century rediscovery of Civil War heroes. A rare opportunity to acquire a Victorian revivalist portrait after Robert Walker, celebrating one of the English Civil War’s most compelling generals—presented in museum-grade framing and glazing, with precise size documentation, and ready for the finest collection or interior.