Peter Oliver

Background

Born in 1594 in Isleworth, Middlesex, he was the eldest son of Isaac Oliver, a French-born English portrait miniature painter, probably by his first wife.

Career

The younger sons of the artist appear to have been under age at the time of his death, and were probably therefore sons by a later wife than the mother of Peter Oliver.

He resided at Isleworth, and was buried beside his father at St Anne's, Blackfriars. He was even more eminent in miniature painting than his father, and is specially remarkable for a series of copies in water-colour he made after celebrated pictures by "Id masters. Most of these were done by the desire of the king, and seven of them still remain at Windsor Castle. A great many of Oliver's works were purchased by Charles II from his wddow; several of his drawings are in existence, and a leaf from his pocket-book in the collection of the earl of Derby.

Achievements

• His most important work is the group of the three grandsons of the 16t Viscount Montacute with their servant, now belonging to the marquess of Exeter; and there are fine miniatures by him at Welbeck Abbey, Montagu House, Sherborne Castle, Minley Manor, В el voir Castle and in the private collection of the queen of Holland.

Connections

Father:

Isaac Oliver

Mother:

Elizabeth Oliver