拍品专文
George and Francis Villiers were the children of the first Duke of Buckingham (1592-1628), a great favourite and friend of Charles I. After his dramatic murder in Portsmouth by a disgruntled soldier under his command, Charles I took the two children under his protection, and they grew up in the Royal nurseries at Richmond in close association with the young Charles II and James II who were similar in age. Both fought for the King during the Civil War, where Francis was killed. After the Restoration George Villiers was described as "one of the worst men alive". A statesman and royal favourite, he was famous for his intrigues and his part in the downfall of the Earl of Clarendon.