Sir Richard Brown (1610?-1669)

Sir Richard Brown (1610?-1669), cast silver oval Military Reward, 1644, armoured bust of Brown three-quarters left, a sash across his shoulder, NON VIR SED VIRTVS, rev., armorial shield of Brown, FOR KING AND PARLIAMENT 1644, wreath and pellet border to both sides, 38 x 26.5mm. (MI 312/142; Eim. 144; Platt II, type A, pp. 59-62). Much as made, good very fine, some light chasing, toned and very rare.

Sir Richard Brown successfully commanded a small Parliamentary army in the Abingdon area and was present at the siege of Oxford. He was several times a Member of Parliament, but became disillusioned with the Parliamentary cause. At the Restoration he greeted Charles II on his entry to the City; he was created a baronet also elected Lord Mayor of London for 1660. An engraved portrait dated to 1647 and signed R.S. (NPG D27151), shows a very similar, though reversed portrait.

Provenance: Morton & Eden, 20-21 May, 2003 (lot 1148); ex Greta S. Heckett Collection, Sotheby's, 25 May 1977 (lot 73).