Oil on canvas. 104.5 x 99 cm artist unknown
Nicholas Rainton was born in Lincolnshire in 1569. He traded in expensive silks and velvets imported from Italy and in 1621 he was appointed an Alderman of the City of London. In 1632 Rainton became Lord Mayor of London and knighted shortly afterwards.
It is not known who painted this portrait, but it has been suggested that it may have been the work of William Dobson or one of his pupils.
A second, similar portrait of Sir Nicholas now hangs at the St. Bartholomew's Hospital Museum. Sir Nicholas served first as a governor and then as President of the hospital . He left money in his will for the relief of the poor and sick.
Find out more about Sir Nicholas