Discover Wellington's favourite portrait by Sir Thomas Lawrence

Britain's greatest military hero The Duke of Wellington by Sir Thomas Lawrence, the finest portraitist of the era. Join historian and broadcaster David Olusoga, in conversation with Christie's specialist Clemi Sinclair as they uncover the story.

Painted in 1820 by Sir Thomas Lawrence following the Battle of Waterloo, this arresting portrait of one of Britain’s most celebrated military commanders leads the Old Masters Evening Sale, 30 June.

Described by Wellington himself as ‘one of the best, if not the best’ of Lawrence’s works, it holds a rare intimacy that pierces the heroic aura of this military paragon. It’s no surprise then that Wellington chose the image for mezzotints gifted to friends and admirers.