In the Company of Friends Portrait Drawing in 17th-century London

This display celebrates the recent acquisition by the British Museum of two rare 17th-century drawings by prominent English portrait painters Samuel Cooper (1609–72) and Richard Gibson (1615–90).

Both artists were part of a thriving artistic community that grew in London in the second half of the 17th century. The circle also included leading painters Sir Peter Lely (1618–80), Charles Beale (1660–1714 or 26) and Sir Godfrey Kneller (1646–1723). Their world is reflected in the drawings selected for this display – informal and intimate portraits of family members, friends, tradespeople and servants, as well as of fellow artists.

The exhibition runs until January 25, 2026 at the British Museum, Great Russell Street, London, WC1B 3DG. UK.

For more information, please click here.  

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