Lot Essay
John Thomas Serres, the eldest child of Dominic Serres, succeeded his father as Marine Painter to George III in 1793 and was appointed Marine Draughtsman to the Admiralty. In 1791 married his former pupil, Olivia Wilmot, but divorced her in 1804. Owing money to his wife, he fled to Edinburgh, but was caught and sent to prison. Whilst in prison he attempted suicide but then served out the rest of his sentence giving drawing lessons.