Called John Gay (1685 – 1732)

attributed to George Knapton (London 1698 – Kensington 1778). Oil painting on canvas, Called John Gay (1685 – 1732), attributed to George Knapton George Knapton (London 1698 – Kensington 1778). A half-length portrait of a man, wearing a red jacket. He wears a black turban and gold waistcoat and holds a leather bound book in his right hand he stands by a window through which a view of small boats with square sails on a river can be seen (inventory card). John Gay was the author of the 'Beggar's Opera' and of the Fables written in 1727, one of which forms the inspiration for John Ferneley's painting of 'The Council of Horses' (CAL/F/86) on the Principal Stairs (House Guide, last revised 1996). Calke Abbey, Derbyshire (Accredited Museum)