This book offers a survey of the development and strength of the British portrait tradition over more than three centuries, from the late 16th to the early 20th century. The range of genres covered includes the sporting picture, the theatrical portrait and the conversation piece. Colour plates illustrate a group of masterpieces by Reynolds, Gainsborough, Van Dijck, Zoffany, Gwen John and others as well as portraits remarkable for their historical interest or their representation of prominent historical personages. All are works purchased for British galleries with the support of the National Art-Collections Fund. The illustrations are accompanied by an essay on the history of portraiture and full catalogue entries prepared by Dr John Hayes. The book is published to tie in with an exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery celebrating the British Portrait.