A small German school oil on canvas portrait of Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington, circa 1815, in a later black and gilt frame. Depicts the sitter bust-length in scarlet military coat with braided epaulettes, blue sash and breast star of the Portuguese Order of the Tower and Sword, against a dark ground.

The execution accords with modest 19th-century German portraits after canonical English prototypes of Wellington, evoking Prussian admiration for the victor of Waterloo and partner to Blücher in the Allied cause. Verso inscribed in period hand, “Herzog v. Wellington, Königl. Englischer Feld Marschall,” affirming German provenance.

Canvas: 9 ½ x 12 ½ inches

Frame: 14 ¼ x 17 inches

Overall presents well with stable condition appropriate to age. The paint surface displays pronounced craquelure with minor associated losses confined principally to the fracture lines, scattered rubbing, and dirt; verso with two old patch repairs to punctures. The frame exhibits handling wear consistent with use. Offers potential for light cleaning and stabilization to enhance color and legibility.