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Notes

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Inheriting the title Duke of Montagu in 1709, John Montagu held a number of posts at court and was a prominent Freemason, but took little interest in politics. He was known for his unusual acts of charity, such as funding the Cambridge education of a Jamaican slave named Francis Williams. He was also a lover of practical jokes, and kept a hospital for old cows and horses. Kind-hearted and generous by nature, Montagu believed that the struggle for wealth and power destroyed a more generous nature, and that the quest for happiness was more important.

National Portrait Gallery, London

London

Title

John Montagu, 2nd Duke of Montagu

Date

1709

Medium

oil on canvas

Measurements

H 90.8 x W 70.5 cm

Accession number

3219

Acquisition method

Given by the Art Fund, 1945. On long-term loan to Beningbrough Hall, Yorkshire

Work type

Painting

National Portrait Gallery, London

St Martin’s Place, London, Greater London WC2H 0HE England

This venue is open to the public. Not all artworks are on display. If you want to see a particular artwork, please contact the venue.

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Artist or maker

Godfrey Kneller

1646–1723

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