Thomas Savile, 1st Earl of Sussex (1590-c. 1659)

 Cornelius Johnson (1593 - 1661), c. 1628 - 30

oil on canvas, 205.1 x 125.7 cm

Although sometimes attributed to George Geldorp, this portrait is certainly a mature work by Cornelius Johnson. The Earl, whom Clarendon described as 'a man of an ambitious and restless nature, of parts and wit enough, but in his disposition and inclination so false that he could never be believed or depended upon', is here portrayed in his robes and coronet as Viscount Savile (created 11 June 1628).

PROVENANCE perhaps by descent from the sitter to his daughter Frances, who married (1668) Francis, Lord Brudenell, father of the 3rd Earl of Cardigan.

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